UN special envoy, DR Congo president discuss peace, security in Great Lakes region

Xia Huang embarked on a mission tour in some Great Lakes countries ahead of a UN Security Council meeting in New York on Apr. 4, according to news website Actualite.cd.

Xia reiterated the UN’s “strong will” to support the Great Lakes nations in their peace and security efforts in deescalating tensions and lasting stability in the region.

The Security Council is expected to discuss the crisis in eastern Congo. The meeting will also discuss the application of Resolution 2773, adopted on Feb. 21, and a lasting global solution to ensure peace and security in the region.

Implementation of the resolution and resumption of the Luanda and Nairobi processes are the main challenges to be addressed, according to Xia.

The upcoming Security Council is an “important opportunity to contribute to the de-escalation of current tensions and then discuss more global, more substantial issues," he said.

The M23 rebels reportedly captured Nyabiondo city on Sunday. The rebel group intensified its territorial control in eastern Congo since December, seizing the provincial capitals of Goma and Bukavu.

Fighting since January has led to the deaths of more than 8,500 people, with at least 5,700 wounded, according to Congolese Health Minister Samuel-Roger Kamba.

Congo accuses Rwanda of backing the M23 rebels and sending forces to eastern Congo when the latest offensive began. Rwanda has repeatedly denied the allegations.

Several countries, including Germany, the US and the UK announced punitive measures and sanctions against Rwanda for the alleged support.