The Francophonie Summit has opened in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, amid a major diplomatic dispute over the leadership of the organization that brings together French-speaking countries and governments.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo has warned that it could withdraw from the organization if current Secretary-General Louise Mushikiwabo of Rwanda is re-elected for a third term.
According to Al Jazeera and AFP, the election for the organization’s leadership is expected to take place on Monday.
The dispute stems from strained relations between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda, against the backdrop of the ongoing conflict in eastern Congo.
Kinshasa accuses Rwanda of supporting the M23 armed group, while Kigali denies the allegations.
French President Emmanuel Macron has called for unity and urged member states to find a solution acceptable to all parties.
The developments are also significant for Kosovo, which holds associate member status in the International Organisation of La Francophonie.
One day before the summit opened, the Government of Andorra announced a meeting between its Foreign Minister, Imma Tor, and Glauk Konjufca during the ministerial conference in Phnom Penh.
