In Luanda, Félix Tshisekedi pleads for peace based on law

At the 3rd Global Forum for Peace of the UN Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) in Luanda, Angolan President Félix Tshisekedi urged for collective responsibility and adherence to international commitments to safeguard peace. He articulated a vision for collective security grounded in respect for international law, honoring agreements, and ending impunity.

“

The DRC does not just speak of peace because it knows war, but because it knows that its potential, its strategic position, and its role in Central Africa can contribute to regional stability, collective security, and shared development.

"The DRC does not just speak of peace because it knows war, but because it knows that its potential, its strategic position, and its role in Central Africa can contribute to regional stability, collective security, and shared development," Tshisekedi stated. He further elaborated that peace transcends the mere silence of weapons, demanding justice, truth, and the protection of civilian populations. "Peace cannot be a simple pause between two violences, nor a fragile promise suspended on power dynamics. True peace rests on law. It demands justice. It calls for truth. It imposes the protection of civilian populations."

Tshisekedi asserted that peace necessitates respect for state sovereignty, territorial integrity, and freely undertaken commitments. He stressed the importance of international word retaining its value, principles being applied equitably, and law serving as the common measure of responsibilities. The DRC, despite facing war and mass displacement, aims to leverage its potential and strategic location to foster regional stability.

“

Peace cannot be a simple pause between two violences, nor a fragile promise suspended on power dynamics. True peace rests on law. It demands justice. It calls for truth. It imposes the protection of civilian populations.

Currently holding the presidency of the UN Security Council since July 1, Tshisekedi is advocating for Africa's perspective on the global stage. The choice of Angola as host resonated, recognizing its successful transition from conflict to a recognized regional mediator. Tshisekedi commended Angola's efforts in dialogue and de-escalation, particularly within the Great Lakes region. The summit's theme, "A call for peace, an end to wars, and respect for international law," holds particular significance for the DRC, which has endured years of conflict, displacement, and exploitation of its natural resources.

“

Peace requires respect for the sovereignty of states, their territorial integrity, and freely undertaken commitments. It demands, above all, that international word retains its value, that principles are not applied selectively, and that law remains the common measure of our responsibilities.