The Community of Sant'Egidio expresses satisfaction and relief at the signing of the Comprehensive and Inclusive Political Agreement that paves the way for peaceful elections by 2017 in the Democratic Republic of Congo. After a period of serious tensions, this is finally good news for Congo, which is a country that is crucial for the Great Lakes region and all of Africa. Sant'Egidio hopes that all the signatories (government, opposition, and representatives of civil society) can faithfully implement the accord for the good of Congo and its people. Furthermore, the Community conveys a particular appreciation to the Congolese Episcopal Conference, which has been able to manage a difficult mediation by being the spokesperson for individuals’ demands for peace and by accepting the urgent invitations of Pope Francis to achieve concrete results in this direction.
For years, Sant'Egidio has been present in many parts of the nation and is active in the health and social field (with the Dream program for the prevention and treatment of AIDS, and with interventions in favor of the weakest segments of the population). The Community will even continue to support every effort for peace because it is the only possible way for the future of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
We support every peace effort for this country, which is strategically important for the entire Africa
