The United States of America has lauded the open-ended ceasefire in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, as announced by Angola on July 30.
“We applaud the Government of Angola, and in particular Angolan President and AU Champion for Peace and Reconciliation João Lourenço, for his mediation efforts,” reads part of the official statement from the U.S. Department of State spokesperson, Matthew Miller.
DR Congo has been accusing Rwanda of backing the M23, rebels which Rwanda denies. Yet the two countries happen to be members of the East African Community (EAC), which has been trying to solve the conflict with little success.
So far, the conflicts in North Kivu province have displaced more than 1.7 million people, driving up the number displaced in Congo by multiple conflicts to a record 7.2 million, according to estimates by the United Nations.
A spokesperson for the Congolese foreign ministry confirmed the ceasefire saying it would be of indefinite duration.
Now the press release from the U.S Department of State, America also seems to welcome the Angola-led Ad Hoc Verification Mechanisms important role in monitoring the ceasefire and commend the governments of the DR Congo as well as Rwanda, for their commitment to pursue negotiations to end the Eastern DRC conflict.
“The United States stands ready to support the implementation and monitoring of the ceasefire, in particular through the Angolan Ad Hoc Verification Mechanisms efforts.”
And just as the ceasefire is being implemented, the U.S called upon all actors to respect human rights, adhere to applicable obligations under international humanitarian law.
The department also advised that the two parties must hold all perpetrators accountable for human rights.
In another development, the United States sent best wishes and congratulations to the government and people of Benin as the country celebrates 64 years of its independence.
“The relationship between the United States and Benin advances regional security, economic development, and public health for the people of Benin. We look forward to deepening our partnership and people-to-people diplomacy to promote democratic governance, respect for human rights, and peace and security.”