Chinese peacekeepers serving with the UN stabilization mission in eastern DR Congo participated in a farewell ceremony on Tuesday as the force begins its withdrawal from the conflict-ridden region.
The 15,000-strong MONUSCO troop presence in the expansive central African nation commenced its departure in February following a request from the Kinshasa government, which deemed their effectiveness insufficient.
The withdrawal is scheduled to occur in three phases throughout this year. The first phase involves the departure of military and police peacekeepers from 14 bases in South Kivu by the end of April, followed by civilian staff by June 30.
Subsequent phases will encompass North Kivu, where M23 rebels have gained control over significant areas, as well as Ituri provinces.
Comprising primarily civil engineers and medical professionals, the 200-member Chinese contingent has been lauded by MONUSCO head Bintou Keita for their expertise, professionalism, and resilience in challenging circumstances.
Their departure, after nearly two decades of service, primarily focused on infrastructure projects such as road repairs and bridge upgrades.
Meanwhile, Pakistani peacekeepers handed over their base at Kamanyola to Congolese police on February 28.
Established in 1999 to quell the second DRC war, the mission once boasted 20,000 UN troops. However, over 270 MONUSCO peacekeepers have lost their lives in the line of duty, highlighting the persistent dangers.
Kinshasa has criticized MONUSCO for its perceived failure to safeguard civilians from armed groups that have plagued the region for decades, resulting in widespread displacement and loss of life.
