CAIRO — Fu Cong, China's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, called for increased international support to foster solidarity and cooperation among the nations of the Great Lakes region, aiming to build a stable and shared future.

According to Namibia Press Agency, during a briefing at the UN Security Council on Tuesday, Fu highlighted the region's active pursuit of peace, security, and development which has revitalized the Peace, Security, and Cooperation Framework for the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the Great Lakes region. However, he noted that the region continues to grapple with significant challenges, including ongoing violent conflicts and a severe humanitarian crisis.

Fu urged countries in the Great Lakes region to engage more deeply in dialogue and reconciliation, remain committed to peaceful coexistence, and collaborate to address security challenges and alleviate humanitarian crises. He emphasized the mutual benefits of resolving differences through dialogue and promoting good neighborliness, which he argued are in the long-term and fundamental interests of all regional countries.

"China reaffirms its support for the DRC’s efforts to safeguard its sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national security and is ready to continue our positive role to promote peace and stability in the region," Fu stated. He commended regional efforts to combat armed groups and strengthen border and defense cooperation, and highlighted the protective role of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO).

Fu also called on all armed groups to adhere to ceasefire agreements, cease violence, and maintain de-escalation efforts. He urged the international community, especially developed countries, to fulfill their aid commitments and address the humanitarian funding gap urgently to support the displaced populations in the DRC and Sudan, affected by ongoing conflicts, the mpox epidemic, and significant food shortages.

Additionally, Fu advocated for international support for the region’s rightful exploitation of natural resources, technological advancements, and enhanced independent development capacities, which he believes are crucial for eliminating the conditions that perpetuate conflict.

As China positions itself as a steadfast ally of Africa in its journey toward modernization, Fu expressed China’s readiness to collaborate with the global community to contribute to enduring peace, development, and prosperity in the Great Lakes region.