The Secretary-General met today in Paris with H.E. President Joseph Kabila Kabange of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), on the margins of the Elysée Summit for Peace and Security in Africa.

They exchanged views on the situation in the DRC and the region, including the status of the Kampala talks.

The Secretary-General congratulated the DRC for the successful military operation against the M23. He stressed however that the military victory will not resolve the problem of the M23 and that it would be important to settle the issue of the M23 politically. He also stressed the importance of dealing with other armed groups, which continue to pose a threat to civilians in eastern DRC.

The Secretary-General encouraged the Government of DRC to continue its efforts in combating sexual violence.

The Secretary-General reiterated the United Nations support to the DRC for which President Kabila expressed his gratitude.