Belgium condemns violence in eastern part of Democratic Republic of Congo

The ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the violence in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) on Friday.

Since 22 May, fighting has resumed in the Rutshuru area, the usual battleground of the M23, and spread to the neighbouring Nyiragongo area near Goma, the capital of North Kivu province. At least 72,000 people have been displaced by the violence in the past eight days.

"The first victim is as usual the civilian population", said the ministry in a statement.

The protection of civilians in armed conflicts is therefore necessary, states the ministry. In addition, the conflict also threatens Virunga Park, a national park that borders Uganda and Rwanda.

"Belgium commends the determination of the eco-guards and the officials of the Congolese Institute for Nature Conservation who are working to protect the park."

Our country calls on all parties involved to lay down their arms to de-escalate the conflict. The ministry also condemns the incitement of hatred against certain communities.

(TOM)

© BELGA/AFP