Martin Kobler, Head of MONUSCO, supports the implementation of the Addis Ababa Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework Agreement

Kinshasa: 12 September 2015 - "On the occasion of the United Nations Day for South-South cooperation, I commend the Congolese Government for its efforts to ensure peace and stability through the reinforcement of South-South cooperation," declared Martin Kobler.

Developing countries need to implement and promote South-South cooperation for the emergence of real economic growth, in an effort to improve the living conditions of their populations. For a sustainable development, it is necessary to ensure cooperation on security issues throughout the Great Lakes region. Concluding the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework Agreement in Addis Ababa, the countries of the sub region have committed themselves to joining their forces in order to consolidate peace and establish a dynamic of economic cooperation.

"I therefore call on the strengthening of cooperation between the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the countries of the sub region through bilateral partnerships but also in the framework of regional organizations such as the ICGLR, SADC and ECCAS," concluded Martin Kobler.

Notes to editors

Despite some persistent challenges, developing countries have become major players on the global socio-economic scene. Furthermore, in view of the implementation of the Sustainable Development Agenda for 2030, to be adopted by the world leaders at the summit which will be held later this month at the United Nations Headquarters, South-South cooperation is an important and effective instrument which should be strengthened.

To highlight the importance of South-South cooperation, the General Assembly decided, by resolution 58/220, to proclaim 12 September United Nations Day for South-South cooperation. It commemorates the day, the United Nations Conference on Technical Cooperation among Developing Countries adopted in 1978, the Buenos Aires Plan of Action for promoting and implementing technical cooperation among developing countries.