On 25 September 2024, before the United Nations General Assembly in New York, President Félix Tshisekedi delivered a wide-ranging speech focusing on the major challenges facing the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Speaking with passion, he called for greater international cooperation to resolve security crises and promote sustainable development.
A call for multilateral cooperation
Félix Tshisekedi opened his speech by welcoming the theme of the session, ‘Leave no one behind’, which he said reflected the deep aspirations of the DRC. He emphasised the importance of multilateralism in resolving global conflicts, stressing that the United Nations, despite the challenges, must remain an essential pillar of international peace and security. In the face of threats such as climate change and rising geopolitical tensions, he reaffirmed the need for greater global cooperation to ensure a sustainable future.
The security crisis in the east of the DRC
The Congolese President went on to highlight the critical situation in the east of his country, where the resurgence of the M23 armed group, supported by Rwanda, has led to a major humanitarian crisis. He condemned these acts of aggression, calling for targeted sanctions against Rwanda and demanding the immediate withdrawal of Rwandan troops from Congolese territory.
‘The Democratic Republic of Congo is actively committed to establishing lasting peace in the east of the country and to promoting the economic development and social well-being of the communities devastated by this armed conflict’, he stated with determination.
Sustainable development initiatives
Félix Tshisekedi also presented his government’s vision for development, particularly in terms of the digital and energy transitions. He stressed the importance of the Grand Inga hydroelectric project in meeting Africa’s growing energy demand, while highlighting the need for international partnerships to promote the sustainable exploitation of natural resources, particularly strategic minerals.
He also stressed the crucial role of Africa’s youth in building a prosperous future for the continent. Investing in education, particularly in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics), is a priority for his government.
The climate emergency and the role of the DRC
President Tshisekedi also addressed the challenges of climate change, reaffirming the DRC’s commitment to help combat this global scourge. Rich in biodiversity, the Congo has a key role to play in protecting tropical forests, and the President spoke of the joint initiative with Brazil and Indonesia to preserve these vital ecosystems. He stressed the need to provide financial and technical support for efforts to achieve the objectives of the Paris Agreement.
Conclusion: A vision for a prosperous future
President Félix Tshisekedi concluded his speech by reiterating his commitment to multilateralism and calling on the international community to support the DRC in its efforts to establish peace and promote sustainable development. He also called for reform of the UN Security Council to ensure fair representation of African countries, notably through the allocation of two permanent seats.
His strong and inspiring message resonated as a call for collective action to build a world where every nation can prosper in peace, dignity and security.
