Synopsis
Tunisia is expressing significant concern regarding the escalating violence in the eastern DRC, urging for the protection of its sovereignty and adherence to peace agreements. The situation threatens regional stability and humanitarian conditions.Key Takeaways
- Tunisia is deeply concerned about the conflict escalation in DRC.
- Condolences were extended to victims' families.
- Emphasis on protecting DRC's sovereignty.
- Call for de-escalation and adherence to ceasefire agreements.
- Support for initiatives to end military operations.
Tunis, Jan 31 (NationPress) Tunisia is vigilantly observing the recent surge in violence in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) with profound concern, as stated by the Tunisian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Offering sincere condolences to the families of those affected, Tunisia cautioned that this alarming situation jeopardizes ongoing peace initiatives in the DRC and threatens the security and stability of the broader region.
In its statement, Tunisia emphasized the importance of protecting the DRC's sovereignty, urged for a reduction in hostilities, and called for adherence to the ceasefire agreement that was established in late July 2024 under the Luanda Process, a peace initiative spearheaded by Angolan President Joao Lourenco.
Tunisia reiterated its backing for both African and UN-led efforts aimed at halting military actions to avert further casualties among innocent civilians and to prevent worsening humanitarian conditions, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
Previously, on January 30, Felix Tshisekedi, the President of the DRC, pledged a "robust response" to the advances made by the March 23 Movement (M23) rebels in eastern DRC, amidst ongoing peace negotiations by regional organizations.
In a national television address, Tshisekedi declared, "A response is underway" to reclaim every inch of DRC territory. The M23 has asserted control over Goma, the capital of North Kivu province and a significant regional center.
Tshisekedi further noted that, alongside military actions backed by the UN peacekeeping mission and forces from the Southern African Development Community (SADC), the DRC remains committed to diplomatic engagement, particularly through the Luanda Process.
Since Sunday evening, violent confrontations have been reported throughout Goma, a city home to around 1 million inhabitants, including more than 700,000 internally displaced individuals who are already facing challenging living conditions on the outskirts.
Sources indicate that M23 rebels captured several strategic facilities on Monday, including the airport, the port, and a local DRC military base.