S/PV.9899 Security Council

In accordance with rule 37 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, I invite the representatives of Angola, Kenya, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda to participate in this meeting. On behalf of the Council, I welcome His Excellency Mr. Téte António, Minister for External Relations of Angola and Chairperson of the Executive Council of the African Union, and Her Excellency Ms. Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, Minister of State and Minister for Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Francophonie of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. In accordance with rule 39 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, I invite the following briefers to participate in this meeting: Mr. Huang Xia, Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for the Great Lakes Region, and Ms. Catherine Russell, Executive Director of the United Nations Children’s Fund. The Security Council will now begin its consideration of the item on its agenda. I wish to draw the attention of Council members to document S/2025/202, which contains the report of the Secretary-General on the implementation of the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework for the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Region. I now give the floor to Mr. Huang Xia.

I thank you, Mr. President, for this opportunity to present the report of the Secretary-General (S/2025/202), taking stock of the situation in the Great Lakes region. In preparation for this briefing, I toured the region, going in turn to Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Burundi, Rwanda and Uganda. I had the honour of meeting the Heads of State or Ministers of those countries, as well as certain members of the diplomatic community and civil society, including Congolese women, to whom I pay tribute for their unwavering commitment to peace, despite the difficult conditions they face. In addition to the elements that I will bring to the attention of the Security Council in my capacity as Special Envoy of the Secretary-General, I would also like to transmit a few messages from the actors in the region, bearing in mind, of course, the matter that concerns us all — how to capitalize on the various peace initiatives under way and ultimately achieve lasting peace in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo, the epicentre of the deep crisis that has endured for some 30 years. On 27 March, my colleague Ms. Bintou Keita, Head of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, gave the Council a comprehensive overview of the security and humanitarian situation in the east of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (see S/PV.9887). I will not, therefore, review it again, except to reiterate a clear observation — despite the injunctions of the Security Council, of African regional and subregional organizations and of the European Union, and despite the restrictive measures and sanctions that have been Despite declarations of intent, the ceasefire has not come into effect, violations of international law and human rights continue and the humanitarian crisis continues to worsen, both in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and in certain neighbouring countries, notably Burundi, Uganda and Rwanda, which have seen an increase in the number of new arrivals from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. That sombre reality compels us, and should call us, to redouble our efforts to see how, collectively, we can transform the recent political and diplomatic gains into an irreversible movement towards peace. In that respect, the main message of hope that we can hold onto consists of the fact that recent developments around the Nairobi and Luanda peace processes, the efforts of the African Union and the joint initiative of the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) have mapped out important paths and given new impetus to efforts to resolve the crisis. Those efforts must be recognized, encouraged and supported, despite the challenges that remain. Indeed, the adoption by the Heads of State of the EAC and the SADC at the most recent Joint Summit on 24 March of a road map detailing immediate, medium-term and long-term measures, and the appointment of a panel of facilitators, including two distinguished women from the continent, is a step forward. I would like to pay tribute to President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, Chairperson of the African Union, for the huge amount of work he has done in the Luanda process — its achievements must be retained. I am thinking in particular of the agreement on a concept of operations for the neutralization of the Forces démocratiques de libération du Rwanda (FDLR) and the lifting of Rwanda’s defensive measures, which, if implemented in full, will make a major contribution towards resolving tensions between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda. I would also like to welcome the appointment of President Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé of the Togolese Republic as the African Union mediator for the settlement of the crisis between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda. In the same vein, I welcome the momentum created by the Doha initiative. I welcome the meeting initiated on 18 March in Doha by the Amir of the State of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, between President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo and President Paul Kagame, as well as the various consultations held by the Qatari facilitation team with delegations from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rwanda and the M23/AFC. Those steps mark a crucial stage in efforts to bring about a ceasefire on the ground and de-escalate tensions between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda. In addition, the resumption of exchanges between the security services of Burundi and Rwanda could contribute to a de-escalation of tensions between the two countries. All those efforts show that peace is still possible. That is why, and this is my second message, it is important for the parties to show good faith and be prepared to compromise during the negotiations for a lasting settlement of the ongoing conflict in the east of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. In that context, the Congolese Government’s new willingness to enter into direct dialogue with the M23 is an important step towards resolving the crisis. Given the seriousness of the crisis, obtaining an immediate and unconditional ceasefire and agreeing on the reopening of humanitarian corridors should, in my view, be the key items on the agenda for discussions among all the parties concerned, including women and young people, whom we would like to see included According to some authorities in the region with whom I have spoken and in line with the Doha communiqué of 18 March, the Doha initiative is aimed at fostering confidence in support of ongoing African initiatives. That is to be welcomed. Whereas all efforts that contribute to the resolution of the crisis are welcome, it is important that they be aligned with regional efforts. My third message also seeks to underscore the importance of proper integration, coordination and consistency among the commendable initiatives launched outside of Africa and the regional peace processes. Indeed, such an approach would facilitate drawing on the comparative advantages of all involved and on the gains already made so as to create momentum in terms of complementarity and a unified vision and to move towards a robust and uncontested peace agreement in a sequential and structured fashion. Such an approach would also allow stakeholders in the international community to better plan their support for peace efforts and the implementation of the ensuing decisions, should they so wish. Efforts towards peace will be to no avail without the genuine political will to tackle the root causes of chronic instability in the region. To date, we have witnessed overt political and security ambitions competing in strategic areas of interest and being fuelled by the numerous armed groups, the illegal exploitation of natural resources and, moreover, a lack of State authority in those geographical areas. What that amounts to is an unrelenting departure from the spirit and the letter of the Addis Ababa framework agreement. Accordingly, I take this opportunity to reiterate my call to all signatory countries to adhere to the undertakings made under the Addis Ababa agreement, the revitalization process of which should be tirelessly pursued. In that connection, I wish to thank President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda, who has undertaken to host the twelfth summit of the Regional Oversight Mechanism of the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework for the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Region in May. I invite the Security Council, through its deliberations today and its traditional diplomatic channels, to bring all of its influence to bear and to deploy the leverage at its disposal with a view to reaffirming its support for the ongoing peace processes and to urging the regional actors to strive in good faith towards a definitive and lasting settlement of the crisis. It should be the duty of all to give precedence to compliance with international law, as well as dialogue and compromise, as the lives of the civilian populations depend on that more than ever. My Office, in cooperation with the regional and international actors and the United Nations bodies involved within the framework of the action plan for the United Nations Strategy for Peace Consolidation, Conflict Prevention and Conflict Resolution in the Great Lakes Region, recently updated for the period from 2025 to 2027, will continue to support regional peace processes and initiatives for economic, security and judicial cooperation among countries in the region and, it goes without saying, to encourage the transparent and inclusive stewardship of natural resources, which remains one of the levers of a lasting resolution of this crisis, which has endured for far too long.

I thank Mr. Huang Xia, for his briefing and his messages. Ms. Russell: It is very good to be here for this important discussion on the deepening humanitarian crisis in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. I would like to thank Ambassador Bonnafont very much for convening and hosting this briefing during France’s presidency of the Security Council. The Security Council’s continued attention to children affected by armed conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is more critical now than ever. The significant escalation of conflict in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo has reached levels not seen in the past three decades. The intensifying violence has created one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises, leaving millions of children at risk. Since January, more than 1 million people, including an estimated 400,000 children, have been displaced by violence in the eastern provinces of Ituri, North Kivu and South Kivu. That new wave of displacement comes in addition to the more than 5 million people in the region who are already living in displacement camps, where crowded and unsanitary conditions increase the likelihood of diseases, such as mpox, cholera and measles. I would like to draw special attention to the most defining and horrifying feature of the conflict: the rampant violence being committed against children and women. Scores have been killed or injured. There has been a 100 per cent increase in verified grave violations against children in the first quarter of this year, as compared to the first quarter of 2024. They include indiscriminate attacks, large-scale recruitment and use of children, collective abductions of children and widespread sexual violence. The rate of sexual violence against children has reached shocking levels. Reports from child protection partners show that children make up more than 40 per cent of the nearly 10,000 cases of rape and sexual violence reported in January and February alone. UNICEF estimates that, during the most intense phase of this year’s conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, a child was raped every half hour. That clearly points to a systemic crisis in which rape and other forms of sexual violence are being used as weapons of war to destroy lives, families and communities. Please bear in mind that those numbers represent only the cases that have been reported. The true figure is likely significantly higher, hidden by fear, stigma and insecurity. That sexual violence against children is an abomination and demands condemnation and urgent and collective action. Cases of abduction of children have also increased sixfold between December 2024 and February of this year. Those increases have been accompanied by reports of other serious violations of children’s rights, including the killing and maiming of children and threats by armed groups against children living on the street. In addition, repeated mass displacement and the disruption of essential services have created ideal conditions for the spread of endemic diseases. Children under the age of five, many of whom already face chronic malnutrition, are especially at risk of disease. The Democratic Republic of the Congo also remains the epicentre of the outbreak of the new mpox strain. Of course, the mpox response continues to be heavily affected by the conflict. For example, most of the 143 mpox patients in isolation units in Goma had to flee for safety, making it nearly impossible to provide them with care and increasing the risk of the disease spreading beyond the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s borders. At the same time, healthcare facilities have been overwhelmed, and medical supplies are being quickly depleted, including the post-exposure prophylaxis kits used to treat rape survivors, who may have been exposed to HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. Since the start of the year, more than 2,500 schools and learning spaces in North and South Kivu, including those in displacement camps, have been forced to Making matters worse, violence and insecurity are undermining commercial trade and the ability of humanitarian actors to reach children and families in need. At least 11 humanitarian workers have been killed since January. Humanitarian premises and warehouses have been looted, including the two mpox treatment centres supported by UNICEF in Goma and UNICEF’s warehouse in Bukavu. Partners who have largely relied on the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s (MONUSCO) maintenance of core infrastructure that facilitates humanitarian access, including roads and airstrips, are now experiencing challenges in reaching remote areas because of the MONUSCO drawdown. Despite these challenges, UNICEF is staying and delivering for children and families in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. Key operational staff have remained in Goma and Bukavu along with our non-governmental organization partners throughout the worst of the fighting. UNICEF’s response is focused on the provision of life-saving assistance to reach people most in need, in displacement sites and host communities. UNICEF interventions include emergency water trucking, rehabilitation of water supply systems, establishing chlorination points along Lake Kivu, and distribution of emergency water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) supplies. We are now reaching 700,000 people a day in Goma with clean water and sanitation. In addition, UNICEF has been supplying medicines and medical equipment, including post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) kits. We are working with partners to provide support to survivors of sexual violence and to assist children with mental health and psychosocial support. And we are supporting registration and care for unaccompanied and separated children so that they can be reunited with their families. However, this is far from enough and the humanitarian response is facing a critical funding shortfall. In 2024, UNICEF received only 20 per cent of the funding required to address the urgent needs of children and families in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, leaving millions without access to life-saving aid. Recently, we launched an urgent appeal for nearly $57 million to provide emergency assistance to children in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo over the next three months. If the funding crisis is not urgently addressed, hundreds of thousands of children in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo will miss out on screening and treatment for malnutrition, life-saving medicines and vaccines, safe drinking water and psychosocial support. UNICEF echoes the call for an immediate cessation of hostilities and the full implementation of resolution 2773 (2025), which calls for de-escalation, dialogue and the protection of civilians, especially children. We urge all parties to the conflict, those who support them and those with influence over them to work collectively and decisively toward peace. We urge all parties to the conflict to respect their obligations under international humanitarian law and human rights law, in particular those related to the protection of children. We call for full accountability for those who recruit children, commit sexual violence or target civilians. Impunity must not prevail. In conclusion, I urge Council members to commit to several actions that are critical to alleviating the humanitarian crisis in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. First is to demand that parties to the conflict, and those with influence over them, ensure the protection of children and the civilian infrastructure they depend on. Parties must abide by their legal responsibilities to ensure the safety and protection of children, including protection from recruitment and sexual violence. In doing so, the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo should continue to engage Next is to facilitate safe, rapid and unimpeded humanitarian access. This includes ensuring that international borders to neighbouring countries remain open for the voluntary movement of displaced civilians, as well as humanitarian supplies and personnel. All parties must allow and facilitate the passage of impartial humanitarian relief for civilians in need and ensure that humanitarian workers and operations are respected and protected. Lastly, pending a cessation of hostilities, I call on Council members to urge parties to the conflict to agree on temporary humanitarian pauses in the most affected areas so as to ensure humanitarian activities can resume at scale and to facilitate medical evacuations for children and other civilians trapped in combat zones. Parties must also facilitate voluntary, safe and dignified returns for internally displaced people. The conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo has spiralled. Horrific violence and skyrocketing humanitarian need are obviously clear and present everywhere. The situation can and must change. It is up to the Council and the international community to champion a stronger humanitarian response, which includes providing sustained funding, and to drive the parties towards peace. The children of the Democratic Republic of the Congo deserve nothing less. If we fail to act with urgency, we condemn a generation of children to fear, to trauma and to a future defined by violence. But if we stand together for peace, accountability and protection, we offer these children something else: hope.

I thank Ms. Russell for her briefing. I now give the floor to Mr. António.

I welcome the presence here among us of Ambassador Huang Xia, Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for the Great Lakes Region; my sister Ms. Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, Minister of State and Minister for Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Francophonie of the Democratic Republic of the Congo; and Ms. Catherine Russell, Executive Director of UNICEF. I should like to begin by extending my warmest congratulations to you, Mr. President, and your team for your presidency of the Security Council this month, and I wish you every success while thanking you for your indulgence and the indulgence of all members of the Security Council in enabling me to participate in this fashion. We welcome the introduction of the report of the Secretary-General (S/2025/202) just provided by His Excellency Huang Xia, Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for the Great Lakes Region, and we thank him for his tireless efforts to achieve peace and stability in the region. The report that has just been presented reflects a general approach to the current state of the security situation in the Great Lakes region and analyses the main and recent political developments in the region. We note with concern the worsening security situation in some countries in the region, which represents a setback in collective efforts for peace in Africa. We also share the concerns expressed with respect to the areas of politics, the protection of civilians, human rights and food security. Despite this situation, we are optimistic about the initiatives taken by regional leaders through high-level political engagements aimed at restoring confidence and promoting peace and stability in the Great Lakes region. We welcome all efforts made to achieve regional peace and stability, in particular the concerted actions at the level of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the East African Community (EAC) and the search for peace in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, in conjunction with other international actors. In that respect, we highlight the holding of the joint SADC-EAC summit on 8 February in Dar es Salaam, United Republic of Tanzania, which, in addition to calling for a ceasefire, reiterated the need to resume direct negotiations and dialogue with all State and non-State actors, including the M23 group. It also approved the road map, which sets out measures for immediate implementation in the short, medium and long term to achieve sustainable peace in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. Moreover, the meeting of the African Union (AU) Peace and Security Council at the level of Heads of State and Government held in Addis Ababa on 14 February urged the parties to build upon the progress achieved within the framework of the Luanda process. The meeting underscored that there is no military solution to the conflict and called on the parties to prioritize diplomatic and political commitments, calling for the immediate resumption of negotiations with all the parties concerned, including State and non-State actors. In line with the recommendation of the joint EAC-SADC summit, the Peace and Security Council also endorsed the proposal aimed at strengthening, coordinating, harmonizing and complementing the Luanda and Nairobi processes and at appointing additional facilitators to support them, in consultation with the African Union Commission. In that regard, the virtual summit, which was held on 24 March, recommended the appointment of a panel of facilitators composed of five eminent African persons. In view of the many instances of progress achieved under the Luanda process, in particular the consensus reached by the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda regarding the neutralization of the Forces démocratiques de libération du Rwanda (FDLR), the withdrawal of the Rwanda Defence Force from Congolese territory and the lifting of security measures by Rwanda, through the formulation of the concept of operations, His Excellency Mr. João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço has spared no effort in continuing to work on that situation. The President of the Republic of Angola also decided, on 24 March, to dedicate himself fully to the Chairpersonship of the African Union and leave the role of mediator to another Head of State. Allow me to recall that direct negotiations between representatives of the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the M23 were slated to take place in Luanda on 18 March. However, those negotiations were scuppered at the eleventh hour by the M23, invoking the sanctions that had been imposed on them by some countries and organizations outside the continent. That achievement was also the result of the Luanda process. It was under those circumstances that the Bureau of the Assembly of the African Union, which met on 5 April, considered and endorsed His Excellency Mr. Faure Gnassingbé, President of the Togolese Republic, to assume the role of African We welcome diplomatic initiatives by the United Nations, other international organizations and countries of good will that are interested in contributing to the prevention, management and resolution of conflicts in Africa, as long as they are aligned and coordinated with the African Union agenda. Allow me to take this opportunity to express our gratitude for the support provided by countries in the region, regional and international organizations and international partners — and in particular for the confidence that the members of the Security Council have placed in the Luanda process and in the diplomatic efforts undertaken by President Lourenço. We believe that the peace, security and stability of the Democratic Republic of the Congo can be found in the points of convergence set out in the resolutions and decisions of the Security Council, the African Union Peace and Security Council and joint SADC-EAC summits, namely, the unconditional implementation of an immediate ceasefire; the immediate cessation of hostilities; a return to the negotiating table without preconditions; the implementation of an effective verification mechanism; the withdrawal of foreign forces from the territory of the Democratic Republic of the Congo; the neutralization of Forces démocratiques de libération du Rwanda troops; cessation of support for armed groups; and full respect for, and strict compliance with, the deliberations of African regional mechanisms and the Security Council, including resolution 2773 (2025). A sincere dialogue between the sons and daughters of the Democratic Republic of the Congo for a lasting peace is equally indispensable. As the current Chair of the African Union, we reaffirm our readiness to continue supporting diplomatic efforts to restore the stability and development of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and to facilitate the rapid implementation of coordinated, inclusive and harmonized commitments based on the Luanda and Nairobi processes. The Central African Republic made significant progress towards stabilizing the country through the implementation of the joint road map for peace in the Central African Republic, which was adopted at the third mini-summit of Heads of State and Government of the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region, held in Luanda in 2021. However, we note with concern the emergence, in February 2025, of attacks carried out by the rebel group Coalition des patriotes pour le changement against government forces, the United Nations Multidimensional Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic and the civilian population in the north and centre of the country, calling into question all efforts to bring peace to that country. Allow me also to express our concern about the security situation in the Republic of the Sudan, a member country of the Great Lakes region, which is facing an armed conflict that began two years ago and that the African Union regards as very alarming. We are deeply concerned about its negative impact on the Sudanese people and on the region. The Republic of Angola believes that the conflict in the Republic of the Sudan can be resolved only by means of political and diplomatic dialogue. In that regard, we support and encourage the efforts and initiatives undertaken by Given the impact of conflicts in Africa, the Angolan presidency of the African Union proposes holding a conference on conflicts in Africa. Such a conference can contribute to finding motivating solutions in the face of the multifaceted scenarios facing the continent. It is also important to highlight, in that context, the recommendations of the most recent African Union Summit concerning the establishment of a panel to review the peace and security architecture of the African Union. With particular regard to the region under analysis today, namely, the Great Lakes region, we believe that the review of the African Union’s peace and security architecture will provide an opportunity to implement the proposal made by the Republic of Angola, in its capacity as the current Chair of the International Conference of the Great Lakes Region, with a view to the recognition and accreditation of that Organization as the African Union Regional Mechanism for Conflict Prevention, Management and Resolution in Africa. Lastly, we believe that those measures will make it possible to adapt the African Union’s peace and security architecture to the current situation, with a view to making an effective contribution to the goals of silencing the guns and of peace, goals defended also by the Council.

I thank His Excellency Mr. Teté António for his briefing and for expanding upon the African Union’s actions to address the different crises it faces. I can inform him that the Council discussed the situation in South Sudan this morning (see S/PV.9898). I am grateful to colleagues for agreeing to allow him to brief the Council today. I shall now give the floor to those members of the Council who wish to make statements.

I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the three African members of the Security Council, namely, Algeria, Sierra Leone and my own country, Somalia, plus Guyana (A3+). We express our sincere appreciation to Mr. Xia Huang, Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for the Great Lakes Region, for his comprehensive briefing and continued engagement in support of peace, security and stability in the region. We also thank Ms. Catherine Russell, Executive Director of UNICEF, for her comprehensive briefing. We welcome the participation of His Excellency Mr. Téte António, Minister for External Relations of the Republic of Angola and Chairperson of the Executive Council of the African Union for his briefing. We also welcome Her Excellency Ms. Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, Minister of State, Minister for Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Francophonie of the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the representatives of Rwanda and Kenya to this meeting. Despite the continued diplomatic efforts by countries in the region to address the ongoing challenges, the road ahead remains long. The A3+ remains gravely concerned about the escalation of violence and armed group activities in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo and the potential impact on the security situation in the region. We are particularly concerned about the severe impact on civilians, including women and children, and the heightened risk of regional destabilization. We unequivocally condemn all acts of violence and violations of international law, including international humanitarian law. The A3+ calls for calm and encourages more efforts to restore good neighbourliness, address differences through peaceful means and deepen cooperation We welcome the adoption of the joint East African Community (EAC)/Southern African Development Community (SADC) road map, which establishes a coordinated framework of political and security measures to de-escalate tensions and bring lasting peace to the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. That framework must be preserved, reinforced and implemented with the constructive engagement of all parties. In pursuit of peace and security in the region, we must address its security challenges, giving priority to violence and the continued attacks by armed groups in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. We commend the continued commitment of President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, Chairperson of the African Union (AU), in advancing the peace process and look forward to the new role of the President of Togo, Mr. Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, as the new AU-appointed mediator in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. We also express our appreciation to His Highness the Amir of the State of Qatar for facilitating the meeting between the President of Rwanda and the President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Moving forward, it is essential to strengthen coordination among regional and international initiatives to ensure strong coherence, complementarity and alignment. On that latter point, we stress the need to avoid duplicate tracks, thereby running the risk of undermining the peace process. The A3+ recalls resolution 2773 (2025), and we recognize the vital role of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in supporting the Congolese authorities and facilitating the protection of civilians. As we continue to engage in addressing the security challenges in the region, we must not overlook the humanitarian crisis. The humanitarian situation is taking a tragic turn. We are deeply concerned by the displacement of millions of civilians who have been forced to leave their homes, attacks on health facilities and the unconscionable incidents of sexual violence and forced recruitment of children. We call for unrestricted humanitarian access and urgently call for the protection of civilians from the attacks of armed groups. The protection of civilians must be central in all efforts towards peace and stability in the region. The Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework for the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Region remains a cornerstone for the stability of the region. We call for the revitalization of that important framework and urge all signatories to honour their commitments and immediately cease supporting any armed groups operating in the region. We also stress the importance of the Framework’s revitalization process at this juncture and call on the signatory countries to support it. To achieve lasting peace, we must address the root causes of instability in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Great Lakes region, namely, the illicit exploitation of natural resources, underdevelopment and the insufficient State presence and poor governance in affected areas. We therefore condemn the unauthorized and destructive activities of armed groups in the protected natural areas in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which undermine efforts for the protection of the forests, the biosphere and the environment as a whole. We call for enhanced efforts to safeguard those assets. The A3+ fully supports the implementation of the United Nations Strategy for Peace Consolidation, Conflict Prevention and Conflict Resolution in the Great Lakes Region. In conclusion, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to the unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and all States of the region. The path to sustainable peace lies in a political solution founded on dialogue, respect for international law and steadfast support for regional peace initiatives.

I wish to thank today’s briefers, Special Envoy Mr. Xia Huang and Ms. Russell, Executive Director of UNICEF, as well as His Excellency Mr. Teté António in his capacity as Chairperson of the Executive Council of the African Union (AU). The Great Lakes region continues to face complex challenges related to security, the humanitarian situation and human rights. Those pressing concerns urgently call for coordinated and measured responses to pave the way for enduring peace and progress. Regional stability is intrinsically linked to the stability of the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. We reaffirm our commitment to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and all countries in the Great Lakes region, and we support all efforts towards durable peace, recognizing the region’s central role in this. It is deeply regrettable that, despite concerted calls from regional and international actors, including from the Council through resolution 2773 (2025), and joint appeals from the Southern African Development Community-East African Community (SADC-EAC) summit and the African Union (AU) for an immediate cessation of hostilities and a withdrawal from occupied areas in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, those appeals have yet to be heeded. As noted by today’s briefers, achieving sustainable peace and security remains contingent on strengthened cooperation and mutual trust. We commend the efforts of regional partners — the AU, the EAC and SADC — and international initiatives. We also extend our appreciation to the Special Envoy for his continued engagement through good offices, amid the evolving crisis in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. We emphasize the importance of aligning and coordinating mediation efforts with ongoing regional processes to ensure complementarity and to amplify the impact of peacebuilding initiatives. That coordination should also translate into unified support for the effective implementation of the agreements reached. It is essential to preserve the progress achieved and the gains made and build on the foundations laid, particularly through the Luanda and Nairobi processes. We thank the President of Angola for his efforts and congratulate President Gnassingbé of Togo on his appointment as the new AU mediator, wishing him success in that role. The Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework for the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Region remains essential to stable peace in the Great Lakes. Its revitalization and implementation are vital for regional stability, with addressing the root causes of the conflict at its core. Addressing the underlying drivers of recurring violence and instability has to remain at the centre of peace initiatives. The illicit exploitation of natural resources, historical grievances and ethnic tensions are some of the issues that must be effectively addressed. We continue to encourage countries in the region to make progress in the implementation of the Regional Mineral Certification Mechanism of the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region. We should not allow global digital and green In conclusion, the tide of instability and violence has created a dire humanitarian situation, which is reflected, above all, in the suffering of civilians throughout the region. Surging humanitarian needs, worsening food insecurity, mass displacement, a health crisis and an alarming rise in human rights violations and abuses stand as stark testaments to that grim reality. The impact on children, with its long-term implications for the future of the region, is particularly devastating. It remains imperative to reach a viable political solution that will halt a further escalation of the conflict. Slovenia reaffirms its commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at restoring stability and ensuring that the welfare of civilians is prioritized.

We welcome the participation of His Excellency Mr. Téte António, Minister for External Relations of the Republic of Angola and Chairperson of the Executive Council of the African Union, and Her Excellency Ms. Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, Minister for Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Francophonie of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, who honour us with their participation. We also acknowledge the participation of the representatives of Rwanda and Kenya. We welcome the briefing by the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for the Great Lakes Region, Mr. Huang Xia, whose dedication is crucial at this critical time for the stability of the region. We likewise welcome the input of Ms. Catherine Russell, Executive Director of UNICEF. Panama expresses its profound concern at the renewed offensive by the Mouvement du 23 mars (M23) armed group, backed by the Rwanda Defence Force, and the fighting that is continuing to worsen security in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. The situation is threatening to undo the gains made under the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework for the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Region. We are appalled by the drastic deterioration in the humanitarian crisis and the unspeakable suffering of the civilian population. Particularly alarming is the unabated conflict-related sexual violence, which disproportionately affects Congolese women and children, as reported by Catherine Russell in graphic and tragic terms. The magnitude of violations of human rights and international humanitarian law cannot be disregarded, and we note with alarm the real risk of a regional escalation. Panama calls for compliance with resolution 2773 (2023) and urges the M23 to immediately lay down its arms, to dismantle its illegitimate administrative entities, to withdraw from all occupied areas and to commit to genuine and constructive dialogue. We echo the call of the Heads of State of the East African Community (EAC), the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the African Union for an immediate ceasefire. We urge all parties to comply with the provisions of the joint EAC-SADC communiqué of 8 February, including the reopening of Goma airport and vital routes for humanitarian aid. We vigorously condemn the deliberate targeting of civilians and the human rights violations being perpetrated by all armed groups present in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. Panama therefore welcomes the decision of the Human Rights Council to set up an urgent fact-finding mission concerning the grave violations in North Kivu and South Kivu. All parties must adhere scrupulously to the principles of international humanitarian law and of human rights. The Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework remains the most comprehensive instrument for addressing the root causes of regional instability. Nonetheless, given the new challenges, including the appearance of other armed actors, emerging geopolitical interests and mounting inter-ethnic tensions, we consider it opportune to embark on a process of revising the Framework so as to tailor it to the current context. At this critical juncture, we urge the signatory States to support the revitalization of the Framework by reaffirming respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity and the undertaking not to provide support — direct or indirect — to armed groups. We also hope for concrete progress on the urgent convening of the twelfth meeting of the Framework’s regional monitoring mechanism, as an opportunity to collectively analyse the roots of instability in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and to bolster regional cooperation. We recognize the decision to merge the Luanda and Nairobi peace processes as a step in the right direction. That convergence can facilitate more effective coordination, promote dialogue among the Democratic Republic of the Congo and armed groups and reduce bilateral tensions. Looking to the future, Panama considers it essential to consolidate a coherent peace architecture that articulates the different regional efforts, guarantees their complementarity and capitalizes on the progress already achieved. The stability of the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo and the entire Great Lakes region depends on our collective ability to achieve that. Finally, we urgently appeal to the international community to mobilize the necessary resources to address the growing humanitarian needs. At the same time, we encourage greater investment in sustainable development programmes that strengthen the resilience of populations and contribute to tackling the structural causes of the conflict.

Let me start by thanking Special Envoy Xia Huang and Executive Director Russell, as well as Foreign Minister Mr. Téte António, on behalf of the African Union, for briefing us today. We also welcome the participation of the Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ms. Kayikwamba Wagner, and the representatives of Kenya and Rwanda in our meeting. This month we commemorate 31 years since the genocide against the Tutsi. During that time, we honour the memory of those who lost their lives, and recognize the remarkable resilience shown by the people of Rwanda. I will make three points. First, the United Kingdom remains deeply concerned at the situation in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. We regret that, despite the unanimous adoption by the Council of resolution 2773 (2025) almost two months ago, it remains far from being implemented. While the withdrawal of the Mouvement du 23 mars (M23) and Rwandan Defence Forces from Walikale is a positive step, much more needs to be done. We reiterate the Council’s call for the M23 to cease hostilities and withdraw from all controlled areas and for the Rwandan Defence Forces to cease support for the M23 and withdraw from Congolese territory. We call on the parties, in line with resolution 2773 (2025), to agree an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, and to seriously engage with regional peace processes. Thirdly, the United Kingdom is deeply concerned by the scale of human suffering from the conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, as set out by our briefers, and its impact on the region. More than 1 million people have been displaced since the start of the year. We repeat our calls for all parties to respect international humanitarian and human rights law and to allow safe and unimpeded passage of humanitarian assistance by lake and road and through the reopening of key airports including Goma and Kavumu. We also support greater United Nations and donor coordination to ensure assistance reaches those most in need.

I thank Special Envoy Xia Huang, Executive Director Russell and Chairperson António for their briefings. We welcome Her Excellency Ms. Kayikwamba Wagner, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and the Permanent Representatives of Rwanda and Kenya at today’s meeting. Recently, amid the ongoing offensive by the Mouvement du 23 mars (M23), conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo has escalated, plunging the entire Great Lakes region into instability. That surge in violence has raised widespread concerns about the potential for broader conflicts threatening to undo more than a decade of efforts aimed at fostering stability and prosperity in the region. The international community must act swiftly and collaboratively to reverse those alarming trends before they deepen further. I wish to make three points. First, an immediate ceasefire must be secured to prevent further escalation of the conflict. As long as fighting persists in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, lasting peace in the Great Lakes region will remain elusive. In February, the Security Council unanimously adopted resolution 2773 (2025), calling on all parties to immediately achieve a ceasefire. Regional leaders from the African Union (AU), East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) echoed that call. China strongly urges the M23 to comply with the ceasefire requirements set forth by the Council and regional organizations, to immediately stop all military expansion and unconditionally to withdraw from all occupied areas. China calls on all relevant countries to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of their neighbours, in line with the principles of the Addis Ababa Framework Agreement. All forms of support for armed groups operating in the Democratic Republic of the Congo must stop. We hope that all countries in the region will refrain from actions that could heighten tensions and that they will work together towards building mutual trust and the de-escalation of the situation. Secondly, it is essential to support regional processes and pursue a political solution. There is no military solution to the conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. Political negotiation remains the only way out. Recently, leaders from the EAC and SADC convened two Joint Summits outlining a road map for resolving the crisis and establishing a panel of facilitators to guide the process. Qatar facilitated a meeting between the leaders of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda in Doha. There have also been direct contacts between the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the M23. All those Thirdly, it is crucial to adopt a comprehensive approach to address the root causes of conflict and instability. The recurring outbreaks of violence in the Great Lakes region over the past decades show that the underlying issues remain unresolved. The international community must adopt comprehensive measures to support the countries in the Great Lakes region in systematically addressing the root causes of security deficits, governance deficiencies and unbalanced development. We should support countries in the region in strengthening the governance of natural resources and advancing mutually beneficial cooperation to ensure that those resources become a true driver of peace and development. The Addis Ababa Framework Agreement remains the most comprehensive mechanism for addressing the root causes of conflicts in the region. Given the current situation, revitalizing that crucial instrument has become all the more necessary and urgent. China calls on all signatories to support the revitalization of the framework agreement and inject new momentum into regional peace. China and Africa have always been good friends, good partners and good brothers with a shared destiny. Guided by the principles of sincerity, real results, affinity and good faith, China actively works with countries in the Great Lakes region to support their efforts in maintaining peace and stability, fostering independent and resilient development and steadily advancing towards modernization. China will continue to deepen comprehensive cooperation with countries in the region and to contribute to long-term peace, development and prosperity throughout the region.

I would like to start by thanking Special Envoy Huang Xia; Ms. Catherine Russell, Executive Director of UNICEF; and His Excellency Mr. Téte António, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Angola, for their comprehensive updates. I would also like to welcome the participation of Her Excellency the Foreign Minister of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ms. Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, and the representatives of Rwanda and Kenya. Allow me to emphasize the following points. First, the implementation of resolution 2773 (2025) is urgently needed. The Mouvement du 23 mars (M23) must immediately cease hostilities and withdraw from Goma, Bukavu and all other areas under its control. Greece resolutely opposes any violations of international law and the Charter of the United Nations and stresses its strong commitment to the sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Secondly, we call for urgent de-escalation. A spillover of the conflict and destabilization within the Great Lakes region must be averted. Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo must re-engage immediately in the political dialogue and implement all decisions and commitments agreed under the Luanda and Nairobi processes. Facilitation by regional actors and coordination with the relevant stakeholders in regional and subregional organizations are key for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire. We encourage all parties and mediators to move in that direction. Thirdly, we are deeply concerned about the grave humanitarian and security consequences of the M23 offensive both in North and South Kivu, which have led to a further and mounting increase of internally displaced persons in the Great Lakes Fourthly, we believe that the mobilization of women leaders can be significant in the Great Lakes region. On the one hand, we stress the need to include women and youth in climate, peace and security strategies and to strengthen their role within community-driven initiatives and sustainable practices in order to mitigate the consequences of climate change and to tackle food and water insecurity and environmental degradation in the Great Lakes region. Equally, echoing the Secretary- General in his report (S/2025/202), we stress that a meaningful and active participation of women in the political and peace processes is a key element for sustainable peace in the Great Lakes region. We believe that women can have a pivotal role for the success of disarmament, demobilization and reintegration programmes and disarmament, demobilization, community recovery and stabilization programmes, especially for forcibly recruited children, and of the respective community development objectives, and that women can lead efforts to achieve regional integration and find a way out of the crisis for the Great Lakes region. In conclusion, we align with the Secretary-General in his assessment that establishing a political dialogue and building trust among countries in the Great Lakes region is of critical importance, and we fully support his call on the signatory countries to support the revitalization of the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework for the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Region, with a view to achieving lasting peace and stability in the region.

I extend my gratitude to Special Envoy Huang Xia and UNICEF Executive Director Russell for their comprehensive briefings. I also welcome His Excellency Mr. Téte António, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Chairperson of the Executive Council of the African Union, Her Excellency Ms. Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and the representatives of Rwanda and Kenya to today’s meeting. The situation in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo is perilous. The recent Mouvement du 23 mars (M23) offensive and subsequently established territorial and illegitimate administrative control continue to threaten the stability of the Great Lakes region as a whole. Let me highlight three points. First, the Republic of Korea emphasizes the importance of regional processes in achieving a political solution to the conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. We commend and support recent regional efforts led by the East African Community and the Southern African Development Community. We look forward to the coordinated involvement of the panel of facilitators and the newly appointed AU mediator, President Gnassingbé of Togo. It would be crucial for their engagement to build upon the significant contributions of President Lourenço of Angola through the Luanda process. Qatar’s mediation efforts have also been important and should continue complementing African-led regional initiatives. Progress cannot be achieved unless the M23 immediately ceases hostilities and withdraws from controlled territories. We urgently call on all parties to agree on a ceasefire, as mandated by resolution 2773 (2025) and to refrain from escalating conflict by supporting armed groups. Respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity remains a fundamental principle of the Charter of the United Nations. We further encourage the countries of the Great Lakes region to maintain constructive engagement, while addressing bilateral differences, which would contribute to long-term regional cooperation and stability in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. Thirdly, revitalizing the Peace, Security, and Cooperation Framework for the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Region is essential to addressing the root causes of conflict throughout the Great Lakes region. We commend Special Envoy Huang Xia’s continued dedication and reiterate the calls from guarantor institutions to convene a Regional Oversight Mechanism meeting. Moreover, the increasing extent of the illegal exploitation of, and trade in, natural resources demonstrates an undeniable link with instability and persistent tensions in the region. We call for enhanced measures to ensure the transparency and traceability of mineral exports. In conclusion, the Republic of Korea recognizes the indispensable role of the countries of the Great Lakes region in achieving stability in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. We reaffirm our unwavering support for Special Envoy Huang Xia and regional organizations, and we remain firmly committed to supporting regional initiatives to promote sustainable peace and stability across the region.

We thank the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General, Mr. Huang Xia, the Minister for External Relations of Angola and Chairperson of the Executive Council of the African Union, Mr. Téte António, for their briefings. We welcome the participation of the Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ms. Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, and the representatives of Rwanda and Kenya in the meeting. Since the beginning of this year, the situation in the Great Lakes region has, to our great regret, deteriorated significantly. The escalation of the conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo as a result of a fresh offensive by the Mouvement du 23 mars (M23) group, with outside backing, has brought the region to the brink of a real inter-State armed confrontation — the precise turn of events that we feared would ensue from missed diplomatic opportunities. Nonetheless, political options for resolving the crisis remain on the table. They are laid down in the key provisions of resolution 2773 (2025), and the parties are well- acquainted with them. Unfortunately, for some reason, the parties have chosen to disregard that legally binding document — the wrong decision, in our view. The M23 must withdraw from the population centres that it has captured and the territories that it occupies. Support for the M23 and engagement with the Forces démocratiques de libération du Rwanda must end. Implementation of the resolution is the swiftest way of ending hostilities and defining sustainable and viable parameters for peace agreements. Of import is the fact that the fundamental ingredients of resolution 2773 (2025) draw first and foremost on regional recipes for stabilizing the situation. They form part of the road map agreed upon by the East African Community and the Southern African Development Community for practical steps for resolving the crisis and inform the work of the high-level panel of facilitators. We support our African colleagues’ decision to merge the Luanda and Nairobi processes. That, we hope, will allow real measures to be devised to prevent all State cooperation with Armed conflict does not serve the fundamental interests of the States of the region and is incapable of resolving the deep-seated differences among them. Hostilities are only exacerbating the suffering of the civilian population, primarily in the eastern provinces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Since January, the number of refugees fleeing eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo for neighbouring Burundi and Uganda has exceeded 100,000 and the number of internally displaced people stands at more than 500,000. Millions of people are in need of medical and food aid. Kigali and Kinshasa must seize the opportunities that they have been offered, display political wisdom and resolve differences at the negotiating table to end the suffering of ordinary people. In conclusion, we would like to underscore that all the key parameters for sustainable inter-State cooperation were long since agreed by the States of the Great Lakes region under the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework for the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Region. Commitment to that fundamental document, the relevance of which has been borne out by the events of recent months, must be reaffirmed. We support the endeavours of the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General, Mr. Huang Xia, in facilitating that task. We note his efforts aimed at defusing tensions in the region. We will continue to play our part in fostering constructive dialogue among all countries of the Great Lakes region with a view to finding balanced and long-term solutions to regional problems in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations.

I would like to thank Special Envoy Huang Xia, Executive Director Catherine Russell and Minister for External Relations Téte António for their briefings today. The United States remains deeply concerned at the situation in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, and we strongly condemn the continued violence, including by the Mouvement du 23 mars (M23). We urge all parties to immediately cease hostilities and hold accountable those responsible for human rights abuses. As called for in resolution 2773 (2025), the M23 must fully withdraw from all territory of which it has taken control. Rwanda must cease support for the M23 and withdraw all troops from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. We are encouraged by the M23’s and the Rwanda Defence Force’s withdrawal of forces from Walikale. We call on Rwanda to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and further call on all countries in the region to do the same. We are encouraged by the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s willingness to hold direct talks with the M23. A cohesive African-led process remains the most viable path towards a lasting solution, and we hope that the United Nations good offices, broad mandates and vast institutional knowledge in the Great Lakes region can be brought to bear to support those regional peace initiatives. Greater coordination between regional and United Nations mechanisms is needed to prevent forum shopping and duplication of efforts. We reject any action by the parties to delay commitments, amass negotiating leverage or distract the international community from further escalation. We welcome Special Envoy Xia’s use of his position to assist countries and organizations of the region in their efforts towards peace. Twelve years after its adoption, the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework remains far from both being fully implemented and realizing its foundational goal of ending recurring cycles of violence in this region. While root causes persist, the United States remains committed to supporting an end to the conflict. We believe the Great Lakes region has immense potential for shared prosperity through enduring

I also thank Special Envoy Xia, Executive Director Russell and His Excellency Minister for External Relations António for their briefings today. I would also like to welcome the participation of Minister for Foreign Affairs Wagner of the Democratic Republic of the Congo as well as the representatives of Rwanda and Kenya here today. The picture our briefers have painted here today is a complex one. From protracted crises and displacement to political instability and fragile institutions, the situation demands our urgent and unified attention. Allow me to make three points. First, there is an urgent need for a cessation of hostilities in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo and the full implementation of resolution 2773 (2025). Denmark has, along with other Council members, stressed that point in the many recent meetings. Specifically, the Mouvement du 23 mars (M23) must hold and reverse its territorial control and establishment of parallel administrations. The Democratic Republic of the Congo must effectively neutralize the Forces démocratiques de libération du Rwanda. Rwanda must withdraw its forces from the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s territory and cease its support for the M23. Those demands have been made on multiple occasions, and we reiterate them firmly today. With humanitarian needs and displacement on the rise, there is an urgent need to immediately de-escalate and defuse tensions between the parties. Secondly, we welcome any efforts towards promoting a sustainable peace in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Great Lakes region. We note, as a positive development, the meetings between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda on 18 March and the efforts to facilitate further meetings between the parties in Doha. It is our hope that those steps will complement and be coordinated with the peace process initiated and led by the East African Community, the Southern African Development Community and the African Union. The United Nations system, including the Special Envoy and the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, can offer mediation efforts a wealth of expertise, including in transitional justice. We urge all parties to utilize that resource and the collective knowledge and capacity of all the actors in the region in pursuit of a ceasefire and, ultimately, an inclusive and comprehensive peace agreement. Such an agreement must address hate speech and xenophobia and foster long-term community cohesion. In addition, we underline that the full, equal and meaningful participation of women is central. We commend the efforts undertaken by, among others, the Office of Special Envoy Xia Huang, the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region and President Lourenço of Angola to empower women and youth in the region, in collaboration with the Congolese authorities, and we encourage further action in that regard. Thirdly and lastly, many of the challenges in the Great Lakes region are exacerbated by the adverse effects of climate change. That includes food insecurity, water scarcity, environmental degradation and competition over natural resources. We encourage the implementation of comprehensive climate adaptation strategies and the promotion of conflict resolution mechanisms that address the root causes of competition over resources. In conclusion, in order to rebuild trust across the region, all parties must uphold the core principles of the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework, the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity and desist from tolerating, aiding and supporting armed groups. All parties must demonstrate the political will to address the drivers of conflict. Denmark supports the revitalization of the Framework. It

I thank the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for the Great Lakes Region, Mr. Huang Xia, for his briefing and assessment of the situation. We greatly appreciate and support the diplomatic efforts of the Special Envoy in fulfilment of his mandate on the implementation of the 2013 Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework for the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Region. We also thank Ms. Catherine Russell, Executive Director of UNICEF, for her remarks and valuable input highlighting the harrowing humanitarian situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. We welcome the participation of the Ministers for Foreign Affairs for Angola and the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the representatives of Rwanda and Kenya in the meeting. The situation in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo has reached a critical juncture. The takeover by the Mouvement du 23 mars (M23) of Sake, Goma and Bukavu and its continued advance in defiance of Security Council resolutions and African regional mediation processes threaten regional and international peace and security. It has increased the risk of a wider escalation in the Great Lakes region. The situation demands immediate, concrete and effective action. We cannot afford to procrastinate while the prospects of a full-blown regional conflict grow. In order to de-escalate the situation, we call for an immediate ceasefire and the withdrawal of uninvited foreign forces from the territories of the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo and the neutralization of the Forces démocratiques de libération du Rwanda, as agreed in the concept of operations under the Luanda process. The M23 must immediately lay down arms, dismantle parallel administrations and withdraw from the territories it controls, as demanded by the Council. Resolution 2773 (2025) must be implemented fully, in letter and spirit. We urge the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda to return to the negotiating table to find a political solution to the crisis. Dialogue and diplomacy are the only way forward. The efforts undertaken by President Lourenço of Angola, the former president of Kenya, and as part of the East African Community (EAC) and Southern African Development Community (SADC) peace process, as well as the mediation initiative between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda conducted by His Highness the Amir of Qatar are timely and crucial. We support the merged Luanda and Nairobi peace processes, the appointed panel of facilitators and the designation of the President of Togo as the African Union’s new mediator for the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is regrettable that the M23 has refused to come to the table, despite the agreement of the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo to hold such talks. The M23 must engage with the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s Government in good faith and in earnest. All those complementary diplomatic processes must move the parties towards an immediate ceasefire, leading to a long-term and sustainable solution to the underlying issues. It is imperative to secure the implementation of the Council’s resolution, to address the root causes, including the illegal exploitation of natural resources and to cater for the deepening humanitarian crisis in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, especially violence against women and children, by ensuring the unimpeded supply of life-saving and life-sustaining relief and supplies to those in need. All parties are under an obligation to respect international humanitarian law. Violators must be held to account. Given the recent intensive engagement of the Council, together with the involvement of the African Union and other subregional mechanisms and the engagement by leaders from the continent and beyond, we are of the view that it will be in the interests of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda and, in fact, the wider region, to benefit from this environment by demonstrating political will and genuine commitment and cooperation so as to lay the foundations for durable peace and stability in the Great Lakes region.

I shall now make a statement in my capacity as the representative of France. France reaffirms its support for the endeavours being undertaken by the United Nations in the region, the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General, the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) and humanitarian actors. In that connection, I thank Special Envoy Huang Xia and UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell for their briefing, but first and foremost, for their efforts. I thank Minister Téte António for the information provided, in his capacity Angolan Chairperson of the Executive Council of the African Union, and I welcome the presence of the Minister of State of the Democratic Republic of Congo. France has four messages today. First, the horrors that too many children are enduring make it clear: the humanitarian situation compels us to take action. As Ms. Russell noted, the continuation of the conflict is devastating the lives of hundreds of thousands of children in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. The extent of the rape and sexual violence affecting children, as documented by UNICEF, is shocking. The situation is being aggravated by the offensive being carried out since January by the Mouvement du 23 mars (M23) with the support and participation of the Rwanda Defence Force. Hostilities must come to an end in order to stop the violations of international humanitarian law and of human rights law, the summary executions of children, the recruitment of children by armed groups, the systematic sexual violence and all other grave violations of children’s rights, which must not go unpunished. Secondly, as required by resolution 2773 (2025), the conclusion of a ceasefire is imperative. Despite the many efforts made, the fighting continues, fuelling the risk of a regional expansion of the conflict. The Southern African Development Community and the East African Community underscored the need for a ceasefire in a joint appeal on 8 February. The Security Council was unanimous in reaffirming that requirement in resolution 2773 (2025). The Presidents of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda claimed in Doha last month to be committed to that. There is no reason to wait any longer. Once it is concluded, the ceasefire should be monitored through a credible verification mechanism. MONUSCO must stand ready to play a part in the process. We also continue to call on Rwanda to put an end to the illegal presence of its armed forces on the territory of another sovereign State, in violation of its territorial integrity and in disregard of the Council’s resolutions. The appointment of President Faure Gnassingbé of the Republic of Togo as the new African Union mediator must allow the momentum set in train by President João Lourenço, whose dedication France commends, to continue. It is necessary to implement the agreed parameters for an immediate and definitive withdrawal of the Rwanda Defence Force from Congolese territory and the demobilization of the Forces démocratiques de libération du Rwanda by the Democratic Republic of the Congo. We believe that civil society dialogue initiatives are paramount, such as the one provided by the Conférence épiscopale nationale du Congo and the Église du Christ du Congo for a social pact for peace in the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Great Lakes region. Finally, France actively supports the work of the Special Envoy to promote regional cooperation, including with regards to the traceability of natural resources. Fourthly, the convergence of all efforts is needed. We must support all those efforts so that we can ensure a lasting political resolution of the conflict as soon as possible. Last week, France, as President of the Council, organized informal discussions with Angola, Kenya, Zimbabwe, Qatar and the United Nations to work towards aligning and coordinating those initiatives. We must act to ensure a long- awaited effective ceasefire, the opening of humanitarian corridors, the re-opening of the Goma airport and the full implementation of resolution 2773 (2025). There is no military solution to the conflict in the Great Lakes region. Negotiations must be concluded in order to end the crisis and work towards peace and shared prosperity in the region. The Council must remain actively involved to create conditions conducive to that end. We must be prepared to shoulder our responsibilities in the absence of progress. I resume my functions as President of the Council. I now give the floor to the Minister of State and Minister for Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Francophonie of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

On behalf of the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, I would like to congratulate France on its Presidency of the Council in the month of April and to thank the French delegation for organizing this meeting and the interactive dialogue, held last week. I would also like to welcome the presence of my brother, His Excellency Mr. Téte António, Minister for External Relations of Angola and Chairperson of the Executive Council of the African Union, as well as the presence of the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for the Great Lakes Region, the Executive Director of UNICEF and representatives of the countries of the Great Lakes region. Fifty-four days have passed since the adoption of resolution 2773 (2025), marked by waiting, inertia and continuing violence. On the ground, nothing has changed. Violations persist, tensions are escalating, and peace remains out of reach. The most recent report of the Secretary-General (S/2025/202) is unequivocal. The airports of Goma and Bukavu remain under the effective control of the Mouvement du 23 mars (M23) and the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF). In the occupied areas, summary executions, abductions, forced recruitment and violations of fundamental That dynamic of political and military predation is compounded by another equally tragic emergency — the humanitarian crisis. As the Secretary-General noted in his report, echoed by the Executive Director of UNICEF, the humanitarian crisis has reached a critical level, with more than 1.5 million people newly displaced, entire areas inaccessible and an intensification of attacks against camps for displaced persons and health centres. At the same time, the budgetary cuts affecting the humanitarian agencies of the United Nations system are seriously compromising response capacities. Needs are rapidly growing, resources are collapsing, and hope is fading. We are making a solemn appeal to the international community — the humanitarian emergency in the Democratic Republic of Congo can wait no longer. It is a question of our moral duty, but also of regional stability. The flow of refugees to neighbouring countries is undermining already precarious social ecosystems, and we have to be clear about this — the return of displaced persons and refugees, in a context of prolonged occupation and attempts at imposed repopulation, is a highly sensitive issue. It affects social cohesion and territorial memory. Poorly managed, it will become fertile ground for future conflicts. (spoke in English) The adoption of resolution 2773 (2025) marked a turning point. It carried the authority of the Council and yet, 50 days later, the situation on the ground remains unchanged. The RDF–M23 coalition continues its violations as if the Council’s will had never been expressed — as though the resolution were destined to remain a dead letter. We say otherwise. That resolution is a living instrument, adopted to protect lives, restore legality and preserve peace, and millions of lives in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo still await its full implementation. In that context, regional momentum must be reinforced and unified. We commend the tireless efforts of President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, the African Union-appointed mediator, whose steadfast engagement helped maintain political dialogue despite repeated deadlocks. We also welcome the recent appointment of President Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé of the Togolese Republic as a new mediator. The Democratic Republic of the Congo expresses its full support for that tenure, which signals a renewed commitment to elevate the process at the highest political level. We also express our profound gratitude to the Amir of Qatar for his sustained commitment to peace and security in the region and for supporting regional efforts. In parallel, we welcome the efforts carried out under the joint aegis of the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), notably through the virtual summit held on 24 March 2025. Those initiatives are valuable, but they must now be streamlined around the singular process led by the African Union facilitation. Only a centralized coordination, backed by strong and recognized African leadership, can avoid the dilution of efforts and bolster the credibility and impact of regional commitments. That also calls for more coherent international support. The Office of the Special Envoy for the Great Lakes Region can no longer be limited to supporting a single instrument — the 2013 Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework for the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Region — whose revitalization is long overdue. It must be reconfigured with a clear mandate, rooted not in one agreement alone, but in the realities on the ground. Its role is essential, namely, to anticipate crises, support African-led mediation and ensure alignment among regional initiatives and the international response. The scale of the security challenges, transboundary But we must also speak plainly. None of the decisions stemming from regional processes have been implemented. That is not simply a matter of institutional weakness — it reflects a repeated refusal to uphold commitments, without consequences. The time for implementing resolution 2773 (2025) is long overdue. The M23, along with its backers, must now comply with the authority of the Council by immediately, fully, and unconditionally withdrawing from Congolese territory; ceasing all obstruction of humanitarian operations and the execution of the mandate of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO); and halting all attacks on civilians, displaced persons’ camps, hospitals and schools. However, as clear as those measures may be, they will remain ineffective without a credible verification mechanism. As highlighted by the Secretary-General in his report, violations persist with complete impunity, and the regional verification mechanisms outlined in the Luanda process have proven inoperative, in large part owing to the non-participation of certain States. The Democratic Republic of the Congo therefore proposes the establishment of a strengthened monitoring mechanism anchored in the Council’s existing structures. The Group of Experts on the Democratic Republic of the Congo, under the 1533 sanctions regime, working in coordination with MONUSCO and the Office of the Special Envoy for the Great Lakes Region, could be tasked with producing regular, verifiable reports based on clear indicators, and formally transmitting them to the Council and the Sanctions Committee. Such a mechanism would reinforce the reach of the resolution and provide the Council with a concrete and responsive accountability tool. Ground-level monitoring, especially of ceasefires and compliance with Council resolutions, lies at the heart of United Nations peacekeeping. MONUSCO, in that context, remains the most appropriate and capable extension of the Council’s presence in the field. It remains, to this day, the only entity with the mandate, presence and operational capacity to fully carry out that role. The Democratic Republic of the Congo reiterates its full confidence in the United Nations and its representations in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and in the region. We firmly condemn the repeated, baseless and undignified attempts to delegitimize the United Nations, its missions and their leadership — attacks systematically spearheaded by Rwanda. That double standard is untenable. It is a State that is simultaneously contributing troops to peace operations and benefiting from the appointment of a Special Representative of the Secretary-General, and at the same time leading a defamatory campaign against the United Nations, all while profiting from its legitimacy to sustain its military apparatus and salvage what little remains of its international reputation. (spoke in French) In support of resolution 2773 (2025), some actors have already taken action by imposing targeted sanctions against Rwanda and the M23. That is to be welcomed; a Council decision cannot go unheeded, especially when it is openly violated by a State that contributes to peacekeeping operations. On the strength of those measures, the Council must now enforce its own decision. Experience shows that targeted sanctions and political pressure work. They change power relations, reduce external support and encourage adjustments in posture. It is time to integrate them into a structured multilateral response. Calling for accountability should not amount to a The Democratic Republic of the Congo therefore recommends that Rwanda’s failure to comply with resolution 2773 (2025) be formally recognized; that a monitoring mechanism with gradual enforcement measures be established; that sanctions be imposed on the chain of command of the Rwanda Defence Force and the political decision makers responsible; that Rwanda’s status as a troop-contributing country be revoked; that an embargo be imposed on Rwandan minerals illegally mined in the Democratic Republic of the Congo; and that a mandatory arms notification system be established for arms transfers to Rwanda. Those measures are based on the facts, the law and the Council’s own mandate. Apart from that tangible fact, it is quite clear that Rwanda and the M23 could bring about the total loss of the Council’s authority — not only in the eyes of the Congolese people, who have been suffering for more than three decades, but also in the eyes of all the nations of the world that still believe in the Council’s universal mission. While the Council deliberates, the people of Goma, Bukavu and the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo are suffering the consequences of inaction every day. They have not been forgotten. Their suffering is visible. Their resilience commands respect. Their dignity remains intact, and our national unity unshakeable. Before the hope rekindled by resolution 2773 (2025) is extinguished, the Democratic Republic of the Congo calls on the Council to decide without delay which organs are responsible for the implementation of the resolution; to clearly assess the consequences of non-compliance, including through targeted sanctions; and to establish a follow-up mechanism to ensure accountability and consistency in the international response. I would like to end these remarks on a note of remembrance. April is a month of remembrance, when we commemorate the Rwandan genocide, the genocide against the Tutsis. That tragedy has rightly left its mark on the world’s conscience. But it also triggered another tragedy, a more extended one that is often hushed up: that of the Congolese people. For 30 years, the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo has been suffering the aftershocks of that initial horror. It has absorbed, on its own, the shock of a regional instability born of the flight of genocidaires, the proliferation of armed groups and the mindset of endless reprisals. That situation is rooted in the decisions, inter alia, taken in 1994, by the international community at the behest of the Security Council, through resolution 918 (1994) in particular. That resolution encouraged the then-Zairean authorities to open their borders to receive Rwandan refugees. Those decisions, taken under the pressure of humanitarian urgency, had the effect of importing the conflict, allowing those responsible for the genocide to entrench themselves in our territory. Since then, the Democratic Republic of the Congo has been characterized by recurring cycles of violence and violent interference, initially justified by security concerns but ultimately motivated by economic gain and the exploitation of our resources. We Congolese call that tragedy a “genocost” — a genocide motivated by the quest for profit through the annihilation of populations living atop the coveted wealth, and a project of terror and human erasure that is still at work in our richest regions under misguided security pretexts. Breaking out of that cycle requires more than resolutions. We must recognize the humanity and suffering of others, even when their stories differ. It is in that spirit that we say that the FDLR have no business remaining in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. They must return to Rwanda. Their presence provides a convenient pretext for unjustifiable interventions. Rwanda must recognize that reality as part of its own heritage. It is time to close that chapter, to stop recycling the FDLR — as documented by the United Nations Group of Experts — once and for all. Finally, we recall another tragedy in the Great Lakes region, one that has remained in the shadows for too long: the genocide of the Hutus in Burundi in 1972. Perpetrated in silence, it claimed the lives of tens of thousands of civilians. We welcome Burundi’s application to the United Nations for recognition of that genocide. The Democratic Republic of the Congo fully supports that initiative, in the name of an equitable and reconciliatory memory. If we want April to become a month of shared, rather than instrumentalized, remembrance, we must all — States, peoples and institutions — dare to look at history in all its complexity, without establishing a hierarchy of pain or manipulating the dead.

I now give the floor to the representative of Rwanda.

First, I want to thank Special Envoy Huang Xia for his comprehensive briefing, as always; I thank him for his efforts. We also thank the Executive Director of UNICEF for her comprehensive briefing. I thank the honourable Minister for Foreign Affairs of Angola for his comprehensive briefing, and I also thank Council members for their thoughts on the subject matter. Rwanda begins by reaffirming its sincere commitment to regional peace and cooperation. We remain supportive of the regional processes, and we believe regional processes are the most effective path to durable peace and security in our region. Partners from the region and beyond are all calling for peace and a long-lasting solution that will take into consideration the concerns of all parties. Rwanda shares that position and is willing to do its part to achieve that goal. The Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework for the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Region was signed in 2013 — a landmark initiative and a bold and collective commitment to end the recurring cycle of conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and, by extension, the region. It was meant to address the root causes of instability and build mutual trust among States and among the peoples of the region. Yet, 12 years later, we are still confronting the very same challenges that the Framework was designed to address. Key pillars of the Framework — namely, addressing the root causes of the problems and carrying out the disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration of armed groups — have yet to be upheld. Instead, we are witnessing the continued presence of foreign and domestic armed groups that are mushrooming, posing a significant threat to the region and to the Democratic Republic of the Congo itself. In that connection, the Forces démocratiques de libération du Rwanda (FDLR) remains the greatest security threat in the region. Despite more than 20 Security Council resolutions adopted since 2003, today the FDLR continues to recruit, train and commit atrocities, including sexual violence, ethnic cleansing and mass killings. The FDLR has now graduated to integration into the Forces armées de la République démocratique du Congo (FARDC) before Council members’ own eyes. It is no longer a secret, but a fact based on the reports of the Secretary-General presented in the Council. Therefore, the FARDC/FDLR coalition undermines both regional stability and the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework itself. No country, Rwanda included, should accept the existential threat posed by such groups. Entertaining or legitimizing the FDLR — supporting that armed group — only exacerbates the conflict. Twelve years since the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework was signed, it is time for a candid evaluation of its implementation. The root causes of conflict, ethnic discrimination, armed group proliferation and impunity continue to fester in the First, the FDLR should be disarmed and neutralized, along with all its splinter groups. The Council should ensure the full enforcement of its resolutions, with no selectivity, and hold accountable all those who support or collaborate with the FDLR. Secondly, hate speech and ethnic incitement in the Democratic Republic of the Congo should be condemned. The Security Council must take a firm stance against hate speech and xenophobia in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which is fuelling violence, division and the persecution of Congolese Tutsi communities. Thirdly, joint regional efforts led by the process involving the East African Community and the Southern African Development Community should be supported. Rwanda calls on the Security Council to fully support the ongoing African-led process, which provides the best chance for reaching lasting peace in our region. With regard to complementary initiatives in that process, Rwanda welcomes the confidence-building measures undertaken by the State of Qatar, as it further supports the current positive momentum. Rwanda also welcomes the recent visit to the region by the United States Senior Advisor for Africa, Mr. Massad Boulos. We welcome their pragmatic approach aimed at addressing the root causes of the problems. Fourthly, the role of the Special Envoy in the region should be strengthened. We call on the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General to work in close coordination with processes led by the East African Community and the Southern African Development Community. His good offices should align with regional mechanisms to ensure unified international support. Fifthly, we demand ownership by the Democratic Republic of the Congo itself, which must confront its internal contradictions. Externalizing them or scapegoating Rwanda for its own problems will not solve the problems. Blame games have become their business, but that is just a painkiller. They must own up to those issues. I also wish to emphasize one thing: the continued violations of the hard-won ceasefire by Wazalendo — a militia allied with the FARDC — without any condemnation by the Council, shows a total lack of ownership of the process as the Democratic Republic of the Congo relegates political responsibility to a militia. In conclusion, Rwanda remains fully committed to the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework. We continue to believe in its promise. But that prom­ ise will be realized only if it is supported by genuine accountability, regional alignment and bold political leadership by the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the region and the Council. We call on the Council to stand firmly behind the re­ gional efforts by the East African Community and the Southern African Develop­ ment Community and to ensure that the Special Envoy’s mandate is used effec­ tively to support and complement those initiatives. Rwanda looks forward to work­ ing with all partners to transform the Great Lakes region into a zone of peace and stability and to permanently get rid of armed groups and the legacy of genocide.

I now give the floor to the representative of Kenya.

I thank the briefers for their insightful updates on the evolving situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Despite the commendable and sustained peace efforts by regional and international actors, my delegation is gravely concerned that the situation in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo continues to deteriorate. The continued loss of lives, destruction of livelihoods and mass displacement — both internally and across borders — are stretching the social fabric and infrastructure of host communities, while further destabilizing the region. Kenya maintains that there can be no military solution to this crisis. There is an urgent need for renewed commitment and tangible action on the ground. We therefore call on all parties to immediately cease hostilities, exercise maximum restraint and commit to the ongoing political process. An inclusive, sustained dialogue that addresses both the proximate causes and structural drivers of the conflict is the only viable path to durable peace. In that regard, we underscore the centrality of the Nairobi-Luanda process — a unified, African-led initiative jointly anchored by the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC). On 1 April, His Excellency President William Ruto of the Republic of Kenya, in his capacity as Chair of the EAC, convened the inaugural virtual briefing with the appointed panel of facilitators. That reflects the deep regional commitment to restoring peace through Congolese home-grown solutions, grounded in the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity and regional cooperation. In our capacity as Chair of the East African Community, we recognize the constructive role of international partners, including Qatar, whose support for dialogue is commendable. We also recognize the role that the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo can play in providing logistical support to the joint EAC-SADC regional mechanism as it embarks upon monitoring and verifying the ceasefire. However, such efforts must complement, not supplant, African-led frameworks. Ensuring coherence and alignment with regional initiatives is critical for legitimacy and effectiveness. Kenya stands in firm solidarity with our brothers and sisters in the Democratic Re­ public of the Congo and remains committed to supporting them in their pursuit of peace, security and stability. Kenya will continue to engage, both bilaterally and through re­ gional mechanisms, to contribute meaningfully to efforts aimed at achieving a compre­ hensive and sustainable solution to the ongoing conflict. We call upon the Council to re­ main resolute in its support for mediation efforts and to urge all stakeholders to engage in good faith. Peace is within reach, if we act with unity, urgency and determination.

There are no more names inscribed on the list of speakers. I thank the participants who engaged in the meeting.