Natural resource control and extraction fuel conflict – UN chief

Secretary-General António Guterres said that the control and exploitation of natural resources are dramatically altering the causes, dynamics, and outcomes of conflict. He reiterated, “No more exploitation. No more plundering.”

Speaking at a Security Council meeting on natural resources governance today (22 Jul), Guterres stressed, “It is time to break the age-old pattern—where resources are extracted, value is captured elsewhere, and impoverished communities are left behind to cope with the environmental and socioeconomic damage. ”:

He added, “it is time to close the gap between a state’s recognized sovereignty over its natural resources and its sovereign rights in practice.”

Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, minister for foreign affairs of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, also spoke to the Council in her national capacity. Her government holds the presidency of the council for the month of July.

She said, “our ambition is clear: to transform our natural resources from a source of vulnerability into a driver of transformation, stability, and shared prosperity.”

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Adewale Adenrele

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Adewale Adenrele is a journalist, researcher, tourism & cultural promoter, social commentator, and correspondent at Dotolive News Magazine with vast experience and knowledge in the media and tourism sector. He serves on the Editorial Board. Specialising in political reporting and editorial writing, he offers deep insights into governance, policy and national affairs. His analysis is known for its depth and balance, reflecting a strong commitment to accurate, thought‑provoking journalism that influences public discourse in Nigeria.

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