Foreign Secretary statement on eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo
Foreign Secretary William Hague has given a statement on the deteriorating security and humanitarian situation in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
The Foreign Secretary said:
“I am deeply concerned by the rapidly deteriorating security and humanitarian situation in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) caused by the military activities of the 23 March Movement (M23). I strongly condemn the M23’s advance towards Goma and call on it immediately to desist from further violence. I am particularly concerned by the risk to civilians, the population of Goma and refugees in surrounding areas. I urge those with influence over M23 to call on them to stop fighting and not to provide them any external support. I call for a cessation of hostilities and for all parties to engage to resolve this crisis without further bloodshed.
“Any British nationals in Goma should leave, and any in DRC should check the FCO’s updated travel advice.”