This meeting aimed to shed light on the nature of the dynamics related to ballistic missile issues and its strategic developments, while considering the national and regional context surrounding the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). After recalling the objectives and functioning of the HCoC, the first session focused on the Code’s contribution to international security. The need to combat missile proliferation and the various existing instruments to do so were highlighted – from the MTCR to UN Security Council Resolutions (UNSCR) and politically-binding transparency and confidence-building measures such as the Code.

The second session served to integrate the HCoC into the non-proliferation and disarmament priorities of the region. Given that SALW proliferation is a more immediate challenge for DRC and its neighbours, the linkages between the fight against the proliferation of WMD and its delivery vehicles and the fight against the proliferation of conventional weapons – especially SALW were highlighted. Participants also discussed the implementation of UNSCR 1540, which aims to prevent non-state actors from acquiring WMD capabilities. 

The meeting ended with a presentation on current international and regional space developments, and the role the HCoC can play in providing a framework for such developments. New actors are emerging is what is often called New Space, alongside a multiplication of satellites in orbit and the development of smaller launchers. As space is becoming accessible to an increasing number of states and actors, it is all the more important to preserve a peaceful environment – to which the transparency and confidence-building measures present in the HCoC can serve.