UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres has commended the efforts of Eastern African leaders to promote peace, stability, and development in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the greater East African region.

Guterres, in a statement by his Associate Spokesperson, Ms Eri Kaneko on Saturday, commended the regional leaders, including Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta, for their determination to work toward these objectives.

The UN chief emphasised effective coordination between the regional force and the UN peacekeeping mission in the DRC to protect civilians.

“The two-track approach decided by the Heads of State Conclave, including the formation of a regional force and the revamping of an inclusive political process.

“There is need  for effective coordination between the regional force and the UN Organisation Stabilisation Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO), which is essential to ensure the protection of civilians.

“Local armed groups in the DRC should  participate unconditionally in the political process, and all foreign armed groups should  disarm and return unconditionally and immediately to their respective countries of origin,’’ he said.

Guterres stressed the importance of a comprehensive strategy to address the root causes of the conflict in eastern DRC, including non-military measures, and the effective implementation of existing transitional justice programmes.

The secretary-general called for a continued, frank and open dialogue among all stakeholders with a view to resolving tensions and strengthening trust and confidence.

“The UN  will continue to support the countries of the region in longer-term peacebuilding efforts aimed at achieving accountability and consolidating peace and security gains,’’ he said.