The Team of International Envoys for the Great Lakes of Africa, following its meeting in Geneva on 28 August, emphasizes its support to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in its path towards historic upcoming elections, which are critical for the country's continued development and security. These elections, with the support of the international community, should be transparent, credible and inclusive.

The Envoys note the particular importance of presidential and national legislative elections which should take place within constitutional deadlines and include all eligible voters. With the calendar advancing, they call on all political stakeholders to come swiftly to agreement on the terms of a credible process. The Envoys emphasize the need for timely and determined steps to ensure open political space, free media, and a level-playing field for all participants in the process.

The Team of International Envoys includes the Special Envoy of the United Nations Secretary-General to the Great Lakes Region Said Djinnit, African Union Special Envoy lbrahima Fall, United Nations Secretary-General special Representative for the DRC and Head of MONUSCO, the U.S. Special Envoy for the Great Lakes Region of Africa Thomas Perriello, European Union Senior Coordinator for the Great Lakes Region Koen Vervaeke, and Belgian Special Envoy for the African Great Lakes Region Frank De Coninck.