Goma, 7 June 2009 - Within the framework of the joint directive on Operation Kimia II DRC Armed Forces (FARDC) MONUC, the DRC Minister of Defence and the Special Representative of the UN Secretary General made an evaluation visit in South and North Kivu on 6 June last. A final work meeting took place today at the headquarters of the joint operation in Goma, including the FARDC Chief of Staff, the Kimia II operation Coordinator and MONUC's Force Commander.

The two parties reviewed the sectors of operations, coordination between the FARDC and MONUC, the resources engaged, and the appropriate measures for the reinforcement of the protection of the population, as well as other conditions for success during the operations intended for the disarmament and repatriation of the FDLR rebels.

At the conclusion of the meeting the two parties were committed to improving the coordination of the operations, as well as the sensitizing of the local population. The two parties insisted in particular on the reinforcement of joint planning and the concerted execution of the missions defined together.

The two parties agreed to meet for a new evaluation in mid July next.