Source: United Nations (video statements)
The Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, Jean-Pierre Lacroix, concluded a visit to the Democratic Republic of the Congo from 3 to 7 September. He visited Kinshasa, Bunia, Fataki, and Beni, accompanied by senior MONUSCO and UN peace operations officials.
In Kinshasa, Mr. Lacroix met with President Félix Tshisekedi, the Prime Minister, members of the government, and opposition leaders. He conveyed the UN’s continued commitment to supporting peace and stability in the DRC. The Congolese authorities emphasized the necessity for MONUSCO to continue fulfilling its mandate, expressing clear support for the Mission’s efforts.
Mr. Lacroix emphasized that hundreds of thousands of Congolese people, including displaced persons, rely on MONUSCO for daily protection — particularly in areas like Fataki and Beni, where joint operations with the FARDC continue against armed groups.
He highlighted the importance of international diplomatic efforts, including the Washington and Doha processes, and called for intensified engagement to achieve tangible results such as a ceasefire and reduced violence. He reiterated the UN’s readiness to support the implementation of the Security Council’s resolution 2773.
He also cautioned about the severe financial challenges confronting UN peacekeeping, urging Member States to contribute the necessary resources to enable the peacekeeping missions to fulfill the mandates they have assigned.