With a spirit of consensus, we have overcome the most difficult issues, and we hope we'll adopt the final protocols on property rights and illegal exploitation of natural resources before the end of this preparatory meeting.

The political process in the Congo is due to end with the swearing in of a president on 30 June. The conference will be held after this.

These political, peaceful and democratic transitions in Burundi and DRC are very helpful in creating a more conducive climate.

We believe this has to be tackled together, and we have protocols and projects under the theme of peace and security that will deal with disarmament of rebels, security management of common borders, the movement of illicit small arms and light weapons within the region, as well as fighting international crime within the region.

We just hope that most South Africans have that spirit.

The human spirit carries a torch called hope.