LUSAKA, Jan. 9 (Xinhua) -- The International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR) on Friday voiced concern over the escalating humanitarian crisis in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), emphasizing that the situation demands urgent intervention.
ICGLR Executive Secretary Mubita Luwabelwa said the situation has led to widespread displacement, forcing large numbers of civilians to flee their homes.
"The rising numbers of refugees and internally displaced persons highlight the urgency of our discussions. We must prioritize their welfare and work toward restoring peace and security in the region," he said at the start of an Extraordinary Meeting of Chiefs of Defense Forces of ICGLR member states in Zambia's southern city of Livingstone.
While appreciating efforts made to find a lasting solution to the crisis, he expressed concern that there have been no significant improvements, as hostilities persist and a lasting ceasefire remains absent.
He also condemned territorial advances by armed groups, saying that the continued attacks are not only a setback but also a blow to public confidence.
Luwabelwa called on member states to seek sustainable solutions to the deteriorating security and humanitarian situation in eastern DRC and its wider regional implications.
Maambo Hamaundu, permanent secretary in Zambia's Ministry of Defense, said the region continues to face complex and evolving security challenges, including armed groups that terrorize communities.
He said the security challenges have resulted in worsening humanitarian crises that demand urgent attention.
Despite the challenges, Hamaundu said that the ICGLR has made significant progress in the region, with member states strengthening dialogue, increasing cooperation, and taking collective action to address security threats.
Zambia is hosting a series of meetings on the situation in eastern DRC, commencing with an Extraordinary Meeting of the Specialized Committee of Defense Experts on Thursday and concluding with the Extraordinary Meeting of the Committee of Ministers of Defense on Saturday. ■