Geneva – Algeria has expressed its “deep concern” over the renewed conflict in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), calling for “restraint” and a “halt to escalation” in order to facilitate the resumption of dialogue, according to a statement made on Friday by Algeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Geneva, Rachid Belgasmi.
In his intervention during an emergency session of the Human Rights Council on the DRC—held at the request of the country—Belgasmi stated that Algeria is “deeply concerned about the resurgence of conflict in eastern DRC, which has led to systematic violence, particularly attacks against civilians, women, and children, as well as grave violations of human rights and international humanitarian law.” He described the fragile situation faced by millions of Congolese as “alarming.”
He further emphasized that “Algeria underscores the critical importance of ensuring humanitarian aid reaches vulnerable groups and reminds all parties of their obligations under international humanitarian law. The lives of civilians and humanitarian workers must be protected, and aid must be delivered without obstacles, with respect for humanitarian corridors.”
In the same context, the diplomat stressed that Algeria “urgently calls for restraint and de-escalation to allow for the resumption of dialogue aimed at reaching a political solution that can put an end to the suffering of the Congolese people, ensure respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the DRC, and establish lasting peace in the region.”
Regarding this matter, the speaker affirmed that Algeria “supports the outcomes of the two extraordinary summits of the East African Community and the Southern African Development Community, commending the joint summit held between them in Dar es Salaam during this period.”
Additionally, Belgasmi confirmed that Algeria “fully supports ongoing regional operations and calls on all parties to honor their commitments. Despite significant challenges, Algeria also expresses its encouragement and support for Kenya and Angola in their mediation efforts.”
He concluded by stating that Algeria “stands ready to support ongoing regional mediation efforts and work toward restoring peace and stability in the DRC and the Great Lakes region.”
Article written by Nor Eleslam for dzwatch.dz.
