The UK government has expressed significant concerns about the situation in eastern DRC, emphasizing a need for immediate peace and proposing measures against Rwanda. These include limiting engagements, suspending financial aid, and reviewing defense exports. Discussions with DRC and Rwandan leaders highlighted the illegitimacy of military action and the necessity for earnest peace efforts.
The United Kingdom has expressed serious concerns regarding the escalating situation in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and is poised to implement measures in response. In a recent press statement, the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) indicated that Foreign Secretary David Lammy engaged in discussions with DRC President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame on February 21 and 22, respectively.
During these meetings, Secretary Lammy emphasized that a military approach to resolving the conflict is untenable, insisting on an immediate halt to hostilities. He condemned the recent military aggressions by the M23 group and the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) as serious violations of DRC’s sovereignty and a breach of the United Nations Charter.
The Foreign Secretary urged the leaders to commit genuinely to African-led peace initiatives aimed at achieving a sustainable political resolution. He reiterated the importance of adhering to all agreements made during the Joint EAC-SADC Summit on February 8. The UK is committed to collaborating with African nations and other partners to enhance support for these peace efforts.
Until tangible progress is observed, the UK government intends to implement the following measures:
– Cease attendance at high-level events organized by the Rwandan government;
– Limit trade promotion activities with Rwanda;
– Suspend direct bilateral financial aid to the Rwandan government, except for support targeting the poorest and most vulnerable populations.
Additionally, the UK will coordinate with international partners regarding potential new sanctions, suspend future defense training assistance to Rwanda, and review export licenses concerning the Rwanda Defence Force.
In summary, the UK government has articulated its concerns over the conflict in eastern DRC and announced potential measures in response. Key actions include limiting engagements with the Rwandan government, halting certain financial aids, and reviewing defense-related exports to Rwanda. The UK remains focused on supporting peace initiatives and urging cooperation among African leaders for a durable resolution.
Original Source: www.worldecr.com
