Vietnam supports mediation efforts in Congo and Darfur

New York (VNA) - Vietnam supports mediation efforts of the United Nations and regional countries, and hails cooperation between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda in restoring peace and stability in the Great Lakes region.

Ambassador Hoang Chi Trung, Vietnamese Deputy Representative to the UN Security
Council (UNSC), made the statement at the consulations on the situation in DRC and
Darfur in New York on January 29.

The recent developments in DRC brought in both opportunities and challenges to
peace and stability in the country's eastern area, Trung said, adding that the
UNSC should continue encouraging dialogues between concerned parties in order to
put an end to conflicts on a comprehensive and long-term basis.

The Vietnamese representative voiced Vietnam 's support for the role of the UN
peacekeeping mission in the DRC (MONUC), especially its cooperation with the DRC
government in protecting civilians.

Regarding the Darfur situation, Ambassador Trung expressed his deep concerns about
increasing conflicts in northern Darfur , which threaten civilians' lives and
pose negative impacts on the peace process.

The diplomat asked concerned parties to cease fire, respect international
humanitarian law, abide by relevant UNSC resolutions and ensure safety for
civilians as well as UN officers who are working in the region.-Enditem