France's Macron pledges $36 million for conflict-hit Democratic Republic of Congo

By Nur Asena Erturk

ANKARA (AA) – France’s president pledged €34 million ($36.2 million) Saturday for the conflict-hit Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Emmanuel Macron held a news conference with his Congolese counterpart, Felix Tshisekedi, on the last day of his Africa tour.

He confirmed France's "unfailing support" to the DRC against the rebel group M23's attacks in the eastern region.

The DRC accuses Rwanda of backing the group - a claim Rwanda has denied.

"DRC must not be a war booty," said Macron. "The open-air plundering of DRC must stop."

Macron also expressed support for the EU's decision to build a humanitarian air bridge in Goma in conflict-hit eastern DRC.

He announced a contribution of €34 million in humanitarian aid which will be added to the €50 million announced earlier by the EU.

Macron said France's role is to contribute to peace efforts, which he hailed.

"I have been very clear about it, France has always condemned the M23 and those who support it," he added.

More than 600,000 people are displaced in Eastern DRC due to incursions by M23 rebels, who have seized large swathes of North Kivu since October.

The "Movement of 23 March" rebellion remained dormant for nearly 10 years and reappeared at the end of 2021.

Macron started his visit to Africa on March 1. He went to Gabon, Angola and Congo before his last stop in the DRC.