South African President Cyril Ramaphosa declared Thursday that both the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the East African Community (EAC) are urgently seeking a ceasefire and lasting peace in the volatile eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
He emphasized the current peace, though fragile, must be solidified as peacekeeping forces withdraw.
Ramaphosa made the announcement during a press conference following the 8th EU-South Africa Summit in Istanbul, alongside European leaders.
The SADC concluded its peacekeeping mission (SAMIDRC) in the DRC amidst ongoing rebel offensives.
This decision coincides with upcoming peace talks between the DRC and the M23 rebel group, scheduled for March 18 in Luanda, Angola.
Ramaphosa clarified that the withdrawal would be phased, adapting to the evolving conditions on the ground.
He expressed hope that the withdrawal would serve as a confidence-building measure.
Addressing the broader context, Ramaphosa called for increased international support.
He specifically urged the UN, African Union, and EU to provide assistance to those severely impacted by the ongoing crisis.
Additionally, European Council President Antonio Costa announced the launch of a dedicated EU-South Africa peace, security, and defense dialogue.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen further stressed the need to “step up the financing of our security and defense.”