During the Democratic Republic of Congo’s presidency of the United Nations Security Council, Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Francophonie, presided over an informal Arria-formula meeting in New York on Monday, July 13. The session focused on assessing the normative gap concerning natural resources and peace, exploring its foundations and future prospects.
This significant gathering brought together diplomats, experts, and representatives from various international organizations. Their discussions centered on the pivotal role natural resources play in preventing conflicts and strengthening peace worldwide.
In her address, the Minister of State urged the global community to move beyond a narrow conflict management approach. Instead, she advocated for the proactive promotion of responsible governance of natural resources as a primary tool for conflict prevention, always upholding the full sovereignty of individual states.
Minister Kayikwamba Wagner emphasized that the exploitation of strategic resources should primarily fuel economic development, stability, and the prosperity of populations, rather than exacerbating tensions and insecurity.
Natural resources as a catalyst for cooperation
Also speaking at the meeting, Huang Xia, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for the Great Lakes Region, highlighted that natural resources should not be viewed solely as drivers of competition or conflict. On the contrary, he asserted, they possess immense potential to foster regional cooperation, promote stability, and advance sustainable development.
The Special Envoy further stressed that creating tangible economic opportunities is fundamental to ensuring lasting peace across the Great Lakes Region.
A crucial prelude to the July 22nd debate
This meeting marks the beginning of an important diplomatic series, set to culminate on July 22nd with a high-level public debate of the Security Council. This crucial session will be presided over by President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo of the Republic.
Through this initiative, the Democratic Republic of Congo aims to position the critical issue of natural resource governance at the forefront of international discussions on peace and security. The nation is actively advocating for a more cohesive normative framework that is better suited to the unique realities faced by resource-producing countries.
Understanding an Arria-formula meeting
An Arria-formula meeting is an informal mechanism within the United Nations Security Council. It allows Council members to engage in more open dialogue with external stakeholders who typically do not participate in formal sessions.
These meetings can involve a diverse range of participants, including:
- Representatives from civil society organizations
- Independent experts
- Academics
- Non-governmental organizations
- Representatives from states not currently members of the Security Council
Unlike formal Council meetings, Arria-formula sessions do not involve voting or the adoption of resolutions. Nevertheless, they serve as a vital platform for enriching debates and deepening the collective understanding of significant issues related to international peace and security.
