During the Democratic Republic of Congo’s tenure as president 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 existing gaps in norms concerning natural resources and peace, exploring both foundational issues and future prospects.

This gathering brought together a diverse group of diplomats, experts, and representatives from various international organizations. Their discussions centered on understanding the critical role natural resources play in preventing conflicts and fostering sustainable peace.

In her address, the Minister of State urged the global community to move beyond a narrow focus on conflict management. Instead, she advocated for a broader approach that emphasizes responsible governance of natural resources as a proactive tool for prevention, all while upholding the full sovereignty of individual states.

Minister Kayikwamba Wagner articulated that the extraction of strategic resources should primarily serve to boost economic development, enhance stability, and improve the well-being of populations. This stands in contrast to their current tendency to fuel tensions and insecurity.

Natural resources as a catalyst for cooperation

Also speaking at the meeting, Huang Xia, the United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for the Great Lakes region, highlighted that natural resources should not be exclusively viewed as sources of competition or conflict.

According to the UN diplomat, these resources possess the potential to act as powerful drivers for regional cooperation, stability, and long-term sustainable development.

The Special Envoy further emphasized that creating concrete economic opportunities is a fundamental element for ensuring lasting peace across the Great Lakes region.

A crucial prelude to the July 22 debate

This meeting marks the beginning of an important diplomatic series, set to culminate on July 22 with a high-level public debate of the Security Council. This upcoming debate will be presided over by the President of the Republic, Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo.

Through this significant initiative, the Democratic Republic of Congo intends to position the governance of natural resources at the forefront of international discussions on peace and security. The nation is actively advocating for a more cohesive normative framework that is better tailored to the unique realities of resource-producing countries.

Understanding an Arria-formula meeting

An Arria-formula meeting serves as an informal mechanism within the United Nations Security Council. It facilitates more open dialogue between Council members and external stakeholders who typically do not participate in formal sessions.

These informal gatherings can include:

• Representatives from civil society
• Independent experts
• Academics
• Non-governmental organizations
• Representatives from states not currently members of the Security Council.

Unlike official Council meetings, Arria sessions do not involve voting or the adoption of resolutions. Nevertheless, they provide a valuable platform for enriching discussions and fostering deeper reflection on critical issues related to international peace and security.