Martin Kobler, Head of MONUSCO, expresses great satisfaction with FARDC-MONUSCO cooperation

10 jan 2015

Martin Kobler, Head of MONUSCO, expresses great satisfaction with FARDC-MONUSCO cooperation

Kinshasa, 9 January 2015 – “I am very impressed by the high level of preparedness and the team spirit that reigns between the FARDC and the MONUSCO. I am confident about the engagement of the troops in the upcoming operations against the FDLR,” declared the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Following the United Nations Security Council Presidential Statement reiterating the need to neutralize the FDLR by commencing military operations immediately, Martin Kobler paid a visit to the military bases of Rwindi and Kiwanja, in eastern DRC, together with General Michel Shora Mabondani, Sukola 2 Operations Commander.

“I also observed that civilians, the military and humanitarian organizations enjoy a fruitful partnership. I remain convinced that together, FARDC and MONUSCO will win the fight against the FDLR, and protect the civilian population,” stated Martin Kobler.

Note to the editors

In its statement of 8 January 2015, the United Nations Security Council notes that “the FDLR has not only failed to unconditionally and fully surrender and demobilize, but has also continued to recruit new fighters in their ranks”, and, therefore, calls on the “authorities of the DRC and, in particular, President Kabila as Commander in Chief, to approve swiftly and implement fully the MONUSCO-FARDC Joint Directive.”

Martin Kobler travelled to Kiwanja, where he visited the Joint Operations Coordination Center (CCO) and was briefed on Sukola 2 Operations. He also met with civil society representatives and the Rutshuru Deputy Territorial Administrator.