Belgium's Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot (Les Engagés) welcomes the agreement reached between the government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and M23 rebels to work towards a ceasefire.
Last night, the Congolese government and M23 jointly signalled their intention to work towards a ceasefire. The two sides, mediated by Qatar, are holding talks on the conflict in eastern Congo. Rebels seized large swathes of territory in a matter of weeks, including the cities of Goma and Bukavu, but the offensive has reportedly stalled in the meantime.
"Belgium encourages the parties to the conflict to honour their commitments, engage in dialogue and silence the weapons," said Prévot, who is visiting Central Africa this week.
According to Prévot, that truce is a crucial step to end the violence. "The situation remains extremely precarious, and local people are paying the price every day. There is an urgent need to act. The violence and humanitarian consequences suffered by civilians, primarily women and children, are unacceptable."
Anchored in respect for international law
During his mission, Prévot will deliver this message to countries that, in different capacities, have a crucial role to play in ending conflict and bringing about peace.
He will successively visit Uganda, Burundi and the DRC from Friday 25 April. Following the break in diplomatic relations decided by Rwanda, a visit to Kigali is not possible at the moment.
Prévot will also recall that the Belgian position on the conflict in eastern DRC will remain anchored in respect for international law, human rights and the rule of law. "Belgium has no other agenda and does not try to favour one stakeholder or another in its diplomatic action."
