AUC Chairperson this afternoon received H.E. Mokgweetsi Masisi, former President of the Republic of Botswana & African Union Facilitator for the Eastern Democratic Republic of[...]

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, this afternoon received H.E. Mokgweetsi Masisi, former President of the Republic of Botswana & African Union Facilitator for the Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) process.

President Masisi briefed the Chairperson on the progress of the AU-led mediation efforts under the leadership of the AU Mediator, H.E. Faure Gnassingbé, President of the Council of Ministers of Togo. He outlined his recent engagements with leaders across the region & commended all parties and stakeholders for their constructive spirit, renewed commitment to dialogue, & shared resolve to advance a peaceful & sustainable resolution of the situation in eastern DRC.

In his briefing, President Masisi also underscored the urgent humanitarian dimensions of the crisis, drawing attention to the plight of displaced populations, including vulnerable groups such as women & school-aged children. He stressed the imperative of aligning political dialogue with scaled-up humanitarian support & confidence-building measures on the ground.

Chairperson Youssouf expressed appreciation for President Masisi's comprehensive briefing & tireless diplomatic engagements of the Facilitators. He reaffirmed the African Union's steadfast support for the facilitation & mediation architecture, emphasising the Union's commitment to an African-led, African-owned process grounded in dialogue, de-escalation, & respect for regional mechanisms.

They both conveyed their profound appreciation to President Gnassingbé for his leadership, personal commitment, & dedication of resources to advance the mediation process. President Masisi further expressed gratitude to Commissioner Bankole and Mr. Akok of the AU Mediation Support Unit for their unwavering technical and strategic support to the facilitation efforts.

Their meeting reaffirmed the African Union's collective resolve to work in close coordination with regional leaders and partners to promote stability, protect civilians, and secure a durable peace in eastern DRC.

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