Press releases

Holding an emergency meeting following advances by the 23 March Movement, or M23, towards the city of Goma in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and concurrent attacks on United Nations peacekeepers there, the Security Council heard today that urgent action is needed to address a rapidly deteriorating situation while time remains to do so.

United Nations’ peacekeeping exists to protect the vulnerable, keep the peace, and nurture the best of humanity. Unforgivably, some people betray that mission and exploit, hurt and abuse those they are sent to protect.

From 12 to 14 November, the Military Staff Committees of the United Nations and the African Union have undertaken three days of engagement and discussion, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to closer collaboration in the achievement of their shared goal of peace and security.

Following is the text of UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ video message to the International Conference in Support of Lebanon’s People and Sovereignty, in Paris today: Monsieur le President, excellencies, friends of Lebanon, I welcome this initiative by [France] President [Emmanuel] Macron and underscore our commitment to realizing the aims of this conference and supporting the people of Lebanon. We do so in the context of a region that is reeling, and Lebanon in utter turmoil. The past year has brought daily exchanges of fire across the Blue Line.