Brussels, 11 August 2020/OACPS: On behalf of the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS), the Secretary-General, H.E. Mr. Georges Rebelo Pinto Chikoti,strongly condemns the ethnic attacks on civilians that led to the loss of liveson9 August 2020in the Banyali Kilo area of theIturi Province. He conveys his deepest condolences to the families of the victims, the people and the Government of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The Secretary-General underlines that these attacks illustrate the seriousness of the threat posed by criminal groups to the security and stability of the Democratic Republic of Congo. He calls on all parties to pursue peaceful dialogue and further calls for the promotion of reconciliation processes amongst the various ethnic groups.

H.E. Mr. Chikoti reaffirms the OACPS’ commitment toardently engage with international partners to supportitsMemberstocombatsuch acts of ethnic violence that threaten to reverse the progress made to achieve inclusive sustainable economic development.