S/PV.9985 Security Council

In accordance with rule 37 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, I invite the representatives of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda to participate in this meeting. In accordance with rule 39 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, I invite Ms. Martha Ama Akyaa Pobee, Assistant Secretary-General for Africa in the Departments of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs and Peace Operations, to participate in the meeting. The Security Council will now begin its consideration of the item on its agenda. I give the floor to Ms. Pobee. Ms. Pobee: I thank you, Mr. President, for the opportunity to brief on the latest developments in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. Encouraging progress has been made in recent months, notably with the signing on 27 June in Washington D.C. of a peace agreement between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda, facilitated by the United States, followed on 19 July by the signing of a declaration of principles by the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Alliance Fleuve Congo/Mouvement du 23 mars (AFC/M23). We appreciate all the efforts of the United States and Qatar to bring peace to the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The inaugural meetings of the joint oversight committee and joint security coordination mechanism, foreseen in the 27 June agreement, were held on 31 July and on 7 and 8 August, respectively, and helped to lay the groundwork for the implementation of the agreement. Efforts are also under way to develop a regional framework for economic integration, as provided for in the agreement. Furthermore, representatives of the Democratic Republic of the Congo Government and the AFC/M23 have been meeting again in Doha over the past few days to build on their declaration of principles, address obstacles to its implementation and make progress towards a full-fledged peace agreement. Meanwhile, a joint virtual summit of the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), held on 13 August, endorsed the merger of the mandate of the five EAC-SADC facilitators with that of the African Union-led mediation, led by President Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé of Togo. A joint ad hoc technical secretariat, placed under the African Union, is being set up in Addis Ababa to support this process. Both President Gnassingbé and the facilitators have conducted extensive consultations. The United Nations has provided support where needed. Regrettably, the evolution of the security situation on the ground has not matched the progress achieved on the diplomatic front, while the parties are yet to comply with their obligations under resolution 2773 (2025). The number of civilian casualties has risen dramatically. Humanitarian workers are risking their lives to provide limited assistance to a population whose needs continue to grow. Conflict-related sexual violence persists, amid general indifference. The forced recruitment of children continues. As the school year is about to start, thousands of other children will be unable to go to school because of insecurity. Despite a relative lull in direct clashes, the parties continue to deploy troops and transfer weapons along the front lines. On 6 August, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk issued a statement indicating that, according to credible reports received by the United Nations Joint Human Rights Office, at least 319 civilians, including at least 48 women and 19 children, were killed by the AFC/M23, backed by members of the Rwanda Defence Force, between 9 and 21 July in four villages in Rutshuru territory, in North Kivu Province. These killings were the harrowing result of a military campaign targeting traditional strongholds of the Forces démocratiques de libération du Rwanda (FDLR). During these operations, health centres and infrastructure have been destroyed, villages have been burned, crops have been confiscated, and many civilians have been forced to flee or toil as laborers against their will. The fact that FDLR and Nyatura fighters have blended into the population, occasionally attacking isolated M23 and Rwanda Defence Force positions, has only heightened the ambient fear and mistrust. In South Kivu, the front lines have remained mostly stable. Continuing clashes, however, risk exacerbating inter-ethnic tensions. In Ituri, the security situation has deteriorated sharply since early July, despite the progress made in the context of the inter-armed groups dialogue held in Aru from 23 to 29 June. Zaïre factions affiliated with the Convention pour la révolution populaire (CRP), led by Thomas Lubanga, have intensified their operations against government army positions, also occasionally targeting civilians. The Coopérative pour le développement du Congo has also resumed hostilities, partly in response to CRP activities. In both North Kivu and Ituri provinces, the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) continue to pose a major threat to civilians, Since the beginning of July, 185 civilians, including children, have been killed. Hundreds have also been kidnapped over the same period. Following the Komanda massacre of 27 June, which claimed 43 lives, including 19 women and nine children, the ADF has continued to perpetrate killings on a daily basis. Between 11 and 18 August, in the Grand Nord of North Kivu alone, the ADF killed approximately 50 civilians, including seven women and two children. It set homes on fire and abducted an unknown number of civilians. The Democratic Republic of the Congo is currently facing one of the most acute humanitarian emergencies in the world. Food insecurity is rising as families lose access to their fields and see their harvests confiscated. Today, 5.9 million Congolese are internally displaced, including 1 million in North Kivu and 1.5 million in South Kivu. Families are repeatedly uprooted, caught in a cycle of fear and constant displacement. This relentless instability not only erodes social cohesion, but also threatens any prospect of long-term peace and recovery. We cannot and must not accept the extreme suffering and recurrent horrors that are commonplace in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. In order to protect civilians, restore some law and order and address the profound humanitarian needs of the population, the parties must cease hostilities. They must respect and comply with their obligations under resolution 2773 (2025) in their entirety, with the sustained support of the Council and the international community. The adoption by the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda of the terms of reference of the joint oversight committee, the joint security coordination mechanism of the peace agreement between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Republic of Rwanda and the declaration of principles for a regional economic integration framework are encouraging. It should be emphasized, at the same time, Much more work remains to be done, including work to strengthen coordination and coherence between the various peace initiatives under way. In line with its mandate, the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo remains committed to leveraging its capabilities and expertise in support of all ongoing peace efforts. Next week, the Special Envoy of the Secretary- General for the Great Lakes Region, Huang Xia, will travel to Angola, which holds the chairmanship of the African Union, to discuss how the United Nations can best support African-led peace efforts. Meanwhile, the road map for an inclusive dialogue drawn up by the main religious confessions of the Democratic Republic of the Congo is an important step towards deepening national ownership of current peace efforts. It aims to address the deep-rooted social, political and economic drivers of conflict and instability in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. At this critical juncture for the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the region, it is vital that the Council place its full weight behind current peace efforts, alongside exerting its influence to ensure respect for and compliance with resolution 2773 (2025). All parties must live up to their commitments and obligations. They must place at the centre of their concerns the well-being of the millions of men, women and children who continue to bear the brunt of the ongoing crisis. While the situation on the ground remains dire, there is every reason to hope that, with the genuine engagement of the parties and the concerted support of the international community, peace for the people of the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo is possible.

I thank Ms. Pobee for her briefing. I shall now give the floor to those members of the Council who wish to make statements.

I thank Assistant Secretary-General Martha Pobee for her briefing. The United States requested this meeting because of an alarming increase in violence in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, which has resulted in scores of civilian deaths. These attacks go against the spirit and the letter of both the bilateral Democratic Republic of the Congo-Rwanda peace agreement and the Democratic Republic of the Congo-Mouvement du 23 mars (M23) declaration of principles. Let me be clear: the killings perpetrated by the Rwanda-backed M23 against civilians in Rutshuru territory and elsewhere are horrifying, and the United States condemns them in the strongest terms. Furthermore, United States Government information confirms that the M23, supported by Rwanda Defence Force elements, battled Democratic Republic of the Congo forces around Mulamba, in South Kivu province, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, beginning on 8 August. We are also deeply concerned about the reports of attacks against civilians by armed groups operating with the support of some members of the Congolese army in North Kivu and South Kivu. The appalling recent attacks by Islamic State of Iraq and Syria–Democratic Republic of the Congo (ISIS-DRC) against Christians underscore the broad instability in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. We appreciate the efforts of the United Nations and non-governmental organizations to shed light on these unacceptable acts and condemn efforts to The United States fully expects the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda to uphold their obligations, to cease hostile acts and to resolve disputes by peaceful means, through the joint oversight committee established by the 27 June peace agreement. We also expect the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the M23 to act in good faith under the declaration of principles signed in Doha, in which both sides committed to a permanent ceasefire. Continued hostilities run counter to the agreements signed by the parties. The United States will hold accountable spoilers to peace, and we call on Council members to do the same. The peace agreement and the declaration of principles are public. This is both to ensure that the people in the region can see a pathway towards peace and prosperity, but also to help ensure all parties live up to their obligations and commitments. We have already taken a first step to this end on 12 August, when the United States sanctioned four entities producing and trading conflict minerals in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. We appreciate the African Union (AU) hosting the first joint security coordination mechanism meeting on 7 August, which initiated the concept of operations of the harmonized plan for the neutralization of the Forces démocratiques de libération du Rwanda and the lifting of defensive measures by Rwanda. We urge the Democratic Republic of the Congo to implement the preparation phase immediately and expect adherence to the timeline, as obligated by the 27 June peace agreement, including Rwanda’s withdrawal of its forces from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. We applaud Qatar’s efforts in leading negotiations in Doha between the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the M23. We also appreciate the efforts of the International Committee of the Red Cross in implementing confidence-building measures between the two sides and we support the efforts of the Togolese President, as the AU’s designated mediator in the crisis, and his leadership of the five facilitators named by the East African Community and the Southern African Development Community. We similarly appreciate the AU Commission acting as a secretariat for the facilitators and urge them to implement their mandate as swiftly as possible. Implementation of the regional economic integration framework is dependent on the adherence of all parties to their obligations under the peace process. The United States is ready to support this effort through investment that benefits both the United States and the people of the region. However, to realize these opportunities, administrative control of the region must return to the Democratic Republic of the Congo Government under a governance structure that is representative of the local communities. Addressing the crisis in North and South Kivu is among the first steps necessary to advancing peace in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. To this end, all of us must hold to account ISIS-DRC, armed groups and other destabilizers for their egregious actions and insist all parties honour their obligations and commitments.

At the outset I would like to thank the Assistant Secretary-General, Ms. Martha Pobee, for her briefing, as well as the United States for requesting this meeting. As noted by the United Nations, we are once again facing a very worrisome deterioration of the security situation in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. I would like to highlight three points. Secondly, this situation underscores the renewed need to relentlessly support the momentum provided by the peace process. The Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda concluded a peace agreement on 27 June with the facilitation of the United States. This agreement must enable progress towards lasting peace in the east of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and throughout the Great Lakes region. France has welcomed this step forward and strongly encourages the parties to honour their commitments in good faith. This includes the withdrawal of the Rwanda Defence Force from Congolese territory and the end of all foreign support to all armed groups, including that of the Rwanda Defence Force to the M23. It also includes the neutralization of the Forces démocratiques de libération du Rwanda. France calls for the respect of the commitments made by the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Alliance Fleuve Congo/M23 in the declaration of principles signed on 19 July in Doha, setting up, in particular, a ceasefire. We welcome Qatar’s commitment and support the resumption and conclusion of talks in Doha for a comprehensive peace agreement that is consistent with the objective of restoring State authority in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, with respect for Congolese territorial integrity and sovereignty. The Council must remain mobilized to ensure the monitoring and implementation of resolution 2773 (2025), adopted unanimously, and of the agreements that contribute to it. In that resolution, the Council unequivocally expressed the obligations incumbent upon the parties, based on a central conviction — there is no military solution to the conflict in the Great Lakes region. Only dialogue can address the root causes of the conflict and bring about lasting peace. We are determined to work towards this end with the African Union-appointed mediator, as well as with the United States, Qatar and all actors committed to the success of the different mediation processes. We reiterate the need for convergence and coordination between these initiatives, as well as the central role of the United Nations. France will continue its commitment to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and to peace, stability and security in the entire region.

I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the three African members of the Council plus (A3+), namely Algeria, Guyana, Somalia and my own country, Sierra Leone. We thank you, Mr. President, for convening this meeting as requested by the United States. We thank Assistant Secretary-General Martha Pobee for her insightful This meeting takes place less than two months after the signing of a peace agreement between the Governments of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda, and a declaration of principles between the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Mouvement du 23 mars (M23) armed group. Yet, as highlighted by the briefer, the security situation in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo remains deeply troubling, with widespread suffering and the continuing loss of innocent civilian lives. From the brutal killings in Beni territory by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) to attacks in Djugu territory by the Convention pour la révolution populaire and Zaire militants and continued attacks in Masisi territory by the M23, the human cost of this conflict continues to grow, with increasing deaths and injuries, mass displacement, hunger, disease, sexual violence and destruction of civilian infrastructure. It is therefore critical to strengthen diplomatic efforts to end this conflict in all its dimensions. Accordingly, the A3+ would like to emphasize three key points. First, the A3+ expresses its deep alarm over the continued attacks by the M23, the ADF, the Coopérative pour le développement du Congo and other armed groups despite the existing ceasefire agreement. We call for thorough and impartial investigations into all atrocities committed by armed groups in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and for perpetrators to be held accountable. We remain disheartened by the fact that the peace agreement has yet to produce tangible improvements on the ground and that the Congolese people continue to bear the heavy cost of the prolonged instability and violence in the east of the country. Secondly, the A3+ reiterates its firm belief that a political solution is the only viable path to sustainable peace in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. We are encouraged by the ongoing regional efforts, which laid the foundation for signing of the peace agreement between the Governments of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. We stress the prominent role of the African Union and subregional mechanisms in reaching a sustainable solution to the conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo under the leadership of President Faure Gnassingbé of the Republic of Togo. We also welcome the complementary facilitation efforts of the United States Government and the continued mediation efforts between the Democratic Republic of the Congo Government and the M23 under the patronage of the Emir of Qatar. We also welcome collaboration efforts between regional actors and the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for the Great Lakes region, Mr. Huang Xia, including the recent inaugural joint security coordination mechanism meeting, which was held earlier this month as part of the peace agreement implementation. Thirdly, we are gravely concerned about the repeated ceasefire violations in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. We therefore call for the establishment of a credible and robust verification mechanism to monitor the implementation of the peace agreement. The ongoing violations of the ceasefire agreement only exacerbate the already troubling humanitarian situation. In the context of World Humanitarian Day, which was marked on Tuesday, we honour the sacrifices of humanitarian workers and reaffirm our solidarity with the people they serve. We urge the international community to scale up its support for the Congolese population, and we call on all armed groups to fully comply with international humanitarian law, including by ensuring unhindered humanitarian access. In this regard, we specifically urge the M23 to lift the daily curfew imposed on civilians in Rutshuru territory. The cost to civilians is high.

I thank you for convening today’s meeting, Mr. President. I thank Assistant Secretary-General Pobee for her briefing and welcome the representatives of both the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda to today’s meeting. The conflict and violence in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo are persisting unabated, taking a fresh and continuing toll on civilian lives. This is worrisome. The international community must do more to de-escalate the situation and help to restore peace in the region. I would like to make the following points. First, violence against civilians is unacceptable. Reports indicate that over the past month, armed groups in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo have repeatedly attacked civilians and destroyed civilian infrastructure, causing hundreds of deaths. China stands against these attacks and condemns them and supports serious investigations into them to establish accountability. The international community must urge all armed groups in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo to respect international humanitarian law, desist from violence forthwith and engage in disarmament processes and must support the Democratic Republic of the Congo in protecting the lives and property of civilians, including foreign nationals. We must not allow civilians to fall prey to conflict. China reiterates its support for the Democratic Republic of the Congo Government’s efforts to uphold sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity. Secondly, the momentum for dialogue and negotiation should be maintained. The recent positive engagement between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda created promising momentum, which China welcomes. The international community must, as a matter of urgency, call on both countries to fulfil their commitments and obligations, including those under resolution 2773 (2025), which was adopted by consensus, and work together towards the political settlement of the conflict. Facilitators of the peace agreement between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda must honour their respective duties to see to it that the situation on the ground genuinely improves and the processes are not stalled. China commends Qatar’s mediation in leading to the signing of the Declaration of Principles between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Mouvement du 23 mars (M23). As the Doha negotiations enter the most critical and challenging phase, China calls on the M23 to cease hostilities and engage in bona fide dialogue with the Democratic Republic of the Congo Government. We look forward to Qatar working with both parties to conclude without delay a lasting peace agreement that addresses the root causes of the conflict. The African Union and subregional organizations have long been working to end the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. The international community should support a greater role for the United Nations and regional mechanisms. Thirdly, the humanitarian crisis in the region demands urgent attention. Continued violence in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo has displaced millions, exacerbating the humanitarian situation in the region, especially for vulnerable groups, such as women and children. In the current context, there is no time to lose to ensure humanitarian access, and scaling up humanitarian operations is all the more urgent. The international community should support the reopening Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo has been plagued by conflict and violence for too long. The protracted conflict not only destabilizes the Democratic Republic of the Congo but also undermines regional peace and development. The countries of the region are and always will be neighbours, and they therefore sink or swim together. Only by rejecting force, enhancing cooperation and pursuing common development can peace be preserved, stability promoted and prosperity shared. The international community must continue to act impartially and responsibly to help to restore peace in the region. China stands ready to continue to work constructively to that end.

I thank Assistant Secretary-General Pobee for her briefing, and I welcome the participation of the representatives of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda in our meeting. I will make three points. First, the United Kingdom welcomes the positive momentum towards peace generated by the work of East African Community (EAC), the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the African Union (AU), the signing of the peace agreement between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda in Washington, D.C., and the declaration of principles between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Mouvement du 23 mars (M23) in Doha. Secondly, the United Kingdom condemns the widespread killing of civilians by the Rwanda-backed M23 in Rutshuru territory and killings by the Allied Democratic Forces in Ituri province. The scale of human rights abuses, including sexual violence, by armed groups in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo is deeply concerning. We call on all parties to respect international humanitarian law and to protect civilians. The parties must comply with the ceasefires to which they have committed. Reported violations by both M23 and Wazalendo groups are deeply concerning, as is the rise in inflammatory rhetoric by both sides. The United Kingdom urges the parties to show restraint, avoid further escalation and engage constructively in the peace process. Thirdly, the United Kingdom remains concerned about restrictions imposed by the M23 on the freedom of movement of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO). United Nations peacekeepers must be allowed to deliver the mandate agreed by the Council. We welcome news that supplies of fuel and water are no longer being restricted, and we also welcome that some of MONUSCO’s necessary troop rotations have now taken place. This must be sustained. In conclusion, the United Kingdom strongly supports all efforts towards peace in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. We commend the ongoing efforts of United States, Qatari and AU mediators and facilitators. We welcome the resumption of talks between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the M23. The parties should now urgently and fully comply with the commitments that they have made to a ceasefire and to the protection of civilians. The Security Council should remain seized of their progress. The full implementation of these agreements is critical to delivering the sustainable peace and prosperity that the people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo deserve. We gather at a moment of urgency. The conflict and the loss of lives in the Democratic Republic of the Congo continue to drive civilians and communities deeper into despair. I wish to make three points today. First, Greece strongly and unequivocally condemns the killings last month in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo of a large number of civilians by the Mouvement du 23 mars (M23), backed by the Rwanda Defence Force, and despite the ceasefire recently signed in Doha. We express our sincere condolences to the families of the victims and to the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo for what constitutes one of the largest documented death tolls since the M23’s resurgence in 2022. We call on the M23 and its supporters to immediately cease hostilities. Attacks against civilians constitute grave violations of international law, and the perpetrators and sponsors of these crimes must be brought to justice and held accountable. It is more imperative than ever that the signatories of the Doha declaration of principles signed in July respect their commitments and maintain a permanent ceasefire, while continuing to work towards the finalization of a comprehensive agreement leading to a lasting peace. Greece reiterates its strong support for and commitment to the sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, in line with international law and the Charter of the United Nations. The territorial integrity of the Democratic Republic of the Congo must be respected, and State authority over all of its territory must be restored without delay. Towards that end, resolution 2773 (2025), which calls for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire and for the M23’s withdrawal from all areas under its control in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, must be fully and urgently implemented. Secondly, we are very concerned by the spiralling crisis, its toll on civilians and the ensuing humanitarian situation in a region riven by three decades of conflict. Last week, attacks of significant violence were carried out by the Allied Democratic Forces in various locations in North Kivu, claiming dozens of lives, including those of women and children, and accompanied by abductions and looting. We strongly condemn all violations of international humanitarian law and human rights abuses, and we are appalled by the mounting numbers of internally displaced persons — with an estimated 7.8 million people forced from their homes  — and by the shocking levels of sexual and gender-based violence and the repeated violations of children’s rights. As we speak, a staggering 28 million Congolese suffer from acute food insecurity. In this regard, we strongly call on all parties to the conflict to protect civilians from harm and uphold their obligations under international humanitarian law and human rights law. The delivery of aid, focusing on life-saving assistance for the most vulnerable, must be scaled up and reach all those affected without delay or restrictions. Thirdly, we reiterate our full support for the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) and its presence across the Democratic Republic of the Congo. We are deeply concerned by the M23’s continued obstructions of the Mission’s work in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. Any continuing restrictions on uniformed personnel or the movement of supplies and vital goods are unacceptable. The Council was clear, when it unanimously adopted resolution 2773 (2025), that any attempts undermining MONUSCO’s ability to fulfil its mandate will not be tolerated. We reiterate that It is time to end the vicious cycle of recurring violence in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Greece stands in solidarity with the people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and remains ready to work with other Member States in employing all the tools at the Council’s disposal to urgently address the situation and create the necessary conditions for a lasting peace.

I thank Assistant Secretary-General Martha Pobee for her substantive briefing. I also welcome the representatives of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda to this meeting. The security and humanitarian situations in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo continue to deteriorate despite recent diplomatic efforts. The light of hope, which once shined through dialogue and diplomacy, is now darkened by the shadows of stalemate. It is precisely at this moment that we must renew and intensify our collective commitment to lasting peace in this region. In this regard, I would like to highlight the following three points. First, Korea expresses its grave concern about the failure of the Mouvement du 23 mars (M23) to uphold its commitments under resolution 2773 (2025) and the declaration of principles signed in Doha on 19 July. Instead of honouring its obligations, the M23 has continued to launch offensive operations in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, violating the spirit and the letter of the resolution and its own commitment. Such actions only undermine the progress made through regional diplomacy and compound an already fragile situation. We reiterate our urgent call on the M23 to immediately cease all hostilities and to withdraw any unauthorized military presence from Congolese territory. We further implore both signatories of the declaration of principles — namely, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the M23  — to reaffirm their full and genuine commitment to an immediate ceasefire, and we implore Rwanda to refrain from supporting the M23 in any form and to constructively contribute to peace in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. Secondly, the continued and indiscriminate attacks on civilians perpetrated by the M23 and other armed groups in the region are utterly unacceptable. According to the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, the M23 was responsible for the killing of at least 319 civilians, including women and children, last month in North Kivu province. We are also horrified by a recent Human Rights Watch report that the M23 summarily executed another 140 civilians in July near Virunga National Park in an ethnic-based mass killing. Furthermore, a recent report by the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) confirmed that at least 52 civilians were killed this month in attacks carried out by the Allied Democratic Forces in Ituri province. Full compliance with international humanitarian law by all parties, with a particular focus on the protection of civilians, is urgently required. In this regard, we commend MONUSCO for its courageous and vital efforts to protect civilians under extremely challenging conditions on the ground. We are also deeply concerned by the increase in conflict-related sexual violence in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. Armed groups continue to use sexual violence as a tactic to assert control over this region. Accountability is desperately needed for all perpetrators. Korea is committed to preventing such violence and building peace, including through our contribution of $8.6 million to relevant programmes implemented by the United Nations Development Programme and the United Nations Population Fund.

I also thank Assistant Secretary-General Pobee for her briefing. Slovenia reaffirms its strong conviction that sustainable and lasting peace in the Democratic Republic of the Congo can only be achieved through genuine dialogue, inclusivity and the political will of all actors. We have consistently underlined the importance of good-faith engagement, regional cooperation and full respect for international law in the efforts to resolve the conflict. We welcomed the signing of the Washington peace agreement between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda but stressed that its true value depends on the sincerity of its implementation. In this regard, the Council has been very clear in urging the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda to honour their obligations and commitments in good faith and in line with resolution 2773 (2025). We further welcomed the recent progress in the Doha talks facilitated by Qatar and the signing of the declaration of principles on 19 July. Together, these should bring a glimmer of hope that dialogue can prevail and that stability could be within reach. However, we continue to receive almost daily reports of the most horrific violence against civilians. Slovenia condemns in the strongest terms the escalation of deadly attacks in North Kivu, South Kivu and Ituri, perpetrated by the Allied Democratic Forces, the Coopérative pour le développement du Congo and the Mouvement du 23 mars, supported by the Rwanda Defence Force, as reported by the United Nations Joint Human Rights Office. We are appalled by the brutality of these assaults: killings, abductions, sexual and gender-based violence, looting and the deliberate destruction of livelihoods. Particularly shocking were the massacres documented in July in Rutshuru territory, in which at least 319 civilians were killed. Equally alarming were the attacks in Beni and Lubero in August, claiming more than 50 lives. These atrocities only add to the already unspeakable suffering of millions. Therefore, once again we call on all armed actors to immediately cease all attacks and fully respect their obligations under international law, particularly international humanitarian law. We commend the efforts of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in providing protection where possible and reaffirm our support for its mandate. At the same time, we stress the urgent need for safe and unhindered humanitarian access. Humanitarian aid must reach all those in need. No true, just and lasting peace has ever been achieved without justice, and it cannot be achieved without respect for human rights. Slovenia therefore firmly believes that ensuring accountability for grave violations and upholding the rule of law must remain at the core of all peace efforts in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Let me join others in thanking Assistant Secretary- General Pobee for her briefing. Let me also welcome the representatives of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda to this meeting. The situation in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo continues to deteriorate before our eyes. What we are witnessing is a crisis defined by relentless violence, impunity and immense human suffering. The horrifying, targeted attacks on the civilian population in the provinces of Ituri and North Kivu and escalating violence in South Kivu are a stark reminder that peace in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo remains elusive. Denmark condemns in the strongest terms the recent attacks carried out by the Allied Democratic Forces in Ituri. We equally strongly condemn the killing of hundreds of civilians, including children, by the Rwanda-backed Mouvement du 23 mars (M23), in North Kivu. Such grave abuses are intolerable. They must stop and they must be met with accountability. Allow me to highlight three points. First, the peace agreement of 27 June between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda, facilitated by the United States, offered a rare but important glimpse of hope. Denmark joins others in urging the parties to do their utmost to engage in good faith and to implement the agreement in full. Likewise, we urge the parties to engage constructively and meaningfully in the ongoing talks in Doha. We recall that both parties have agreed to negotiation and to a ceasefire. These commitments must be upheld. Let me be clear: there is no military solution to this conflict, only a political one, one that is inclusive and representative of all Congolese people. We must also insist on the implementation of our own resolutions, especially 2773 (2025). In that spirit, Denmark reiterates our call on Rwanda to withdraw its forces from the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo and end its support for the M23. At the same time, we call on the Democratic Republic of the Congo to neutralize the Forces démocratiques de libération du Rwanda. Secondly, let us not forget who pays the heaviest price in this conflict: civilians. Their suffering is amplified by recent deliberate attacks, humanitarian funding cuts, restrictions on humanitarian access — including through the prolonged closure of the Goma airport — and the looting of humanitarian and medical facilities. Meanwhile, needs are increasing. We reiterate that all parties in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo must protect civilians and comply with their obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law and international human rights law. We call for all perpetrators to be held accountable and for full access for, and cooperation with, international investigations and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights. Justice is not optional. Thirdly and lastly, Denmark reaffirms our full support for the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) as it continues to deliver on its mandate under extremely difficult circumstances. We remain deeply concerned about the obstructions of MONUSCO’s In conclusion, the people of the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo are not statistics. They are parents, daughters, sons, farmers, teachers and traders, and right now, they are in desperate need of protection. They are in need of dignity and of hope. We urge the parties to the conflict to end the violence, to comply with their legal obligations and protect civilians from harm.

We thank Assistant Secretary-General Martha Pobee for her briefing. We welcome the participation of the Permanent Representatives of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda in this meeting. Since the end of June, we have all been following with optimism the progress achieved through international diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. However, reality has once again demonstrated that such a large-scale, long-standing armed conflict involving numerous illegal armed groups and regional players has its own momentum, which cannot be changed overnight. We regret to note that, despite the obviously positive results of the negotiations in Washington, D.C., and Doha, the threats to Congolese civilians have not yet been addressed. Rather, the security situation in the eastern provinces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo has clearly deteriorated. As is well-known, hundreds of civilians have been victims of a number of violent attacks by the Mouvement du 23 mars and the Allied Democratic Forces in recent months. We strongly condemn these unacceptable acts of violence. We express our condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives, and to the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. We wish a speedy recovery to all those injured. We are also deeply concerned about the humanitarian consequences of the latest outbreak of violence. This must be stopped. Millions of Congolese are sick and tired of hardships and constant fear for their lives. We reiterate that there is no military solution to the crisis. A lasting settlement can only be achieved through a political agreement with due regard for the fundamental interests of all parties involved. We hope that the participants in the Doha negotiations will strictly uphold their commitments under the declaration of principles and continue work towards a comprehensive peace deal. It is also important that Kigali and Kinshasa remain firmly committed to implementing the obligations they formally undertook on 27 June. It is clear that an essential condition for stabilizing the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo is the cessation of State engagement with illegal armed groups. This is explicitly stated in resolution 2773 (2025), adopted unanimously by the Council, the key provisions of which, as the situation shows, remain pertinent. Let me remind members that these provisions are based on regional solutions developed within the framework of the Luanda and Nairobi processes and are in line with the parameters agreed upon at the joint East African Community (EAC)-Southern African Development Community (SADC) platform. We would like to emphasize the importance, especially in the current circumstances, of raising the profile of regional actors in the settlement process. In this regard, we welcome the merger of the mediation structures of the African Union, the EAC and SADC into a single mechanism under the auspices of the pan-African organization. We hope that it will work productively in the interests of peace and security in the Great Lakes region. Russia will continue to contribute to the settlement of the crisis in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo in line with the Charter of the United Nations and relevant Security Council resolutions.

I would like to thank Assistant Secretary-General Pobee for her detailed briefing, which highlighted a mix of progress and impediments and contained of grave concern but also some optimism — all of this apparently linked in one way or another with the genuine commitment of the parties to peace. The continuing deterioration in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo is a matter of grave concern for the international community and for the Council. We concur with Ms. Pobee that the Security Council must bring its full weight to bear on the efforts for peace in the region. The recent violence and killings of civilians in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo by the Mouvement du 23 mars (M23), Allied Democratic Forces and other armed groups are reprehensible. Such gruesome attacks on civilians are totally unacceptable. The perpetrators, organizers and sponsors of these acts must be held fully accountable. These atrocities once again underline the grave threat posed by armed groups to peace, stability and human life in the region. Pakistan, together with other members of the Council, welcomed the peace agreement of 27 June between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda, facilitated by the United States, as well as the Doha declaration of 19 July between the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the M23, facilitated by Qatar. These developments offer an opportunity to restore trust and lay the foundation for peace. The real test, however, lies in their full and verifiable implementation. As Assistant Secretary-General Pobee noted, regrettably, the security situation on the ground is not corresponding to the diplomatic efforts. We urge all parties to abide by their obligations and work in good faith. We also underscore the indispensable role of the African Union in advancing peace in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Let me also emphasize that full implementation of resolution 2773 (2025) is imperative for peace. The M23 must cease hostilities, withdraw from areas captured and controlled by them, dismantle parallel structures and engage constructively in dialogue. Any attempt to legitimize illegal control of territory by armed groups will only prolong instability. Pakistan reiterates its firm support for the sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. We appreciate the critical role of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo under extremely difficult circumstances. The Mission must be adequately resourced to implement its mandate effectively with complete freedom of movement. As others have said, there is no military solution to the conflict. Dialogue and diplomacy remains the only path forward. Beyond the immediate crisis, addressing the root causes, especially the illegal exploitation of natural resources that fuels conflict, is also essential. Pakistan supports all ongoing regional and international efforts, including those of the United States, Qatar and the African Union. It is not very often we have such a congruence of efforts in support of peace in any situation. We urge the parties to seize this opportunity. We believe these efforts, pursued in sync and implemented with sincerity and genuine commitment by all those concerned, we believe these efforts can pave the way to de-escalation, reconciliation and a durable and comprehensive peace.

I shall now make a statement in my capacity as the representative of Panama. We welcome the report of the Ms. Martha Pobee, Assistant Secretary-General for Africa in the Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs and Peacebuilding, for its valuable contributions. We also welcome the representatives of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda, who honour us with their participation. Over the past few weeks, we have witnessed a spiral of uncontrollable violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo and the superficiality of commitments made at multiple dialogue tables. In July, the Mouvement du 23 mars (M23) perpetrated massacres that left more than 140 civilians killed, mainly in Hutu communities, in one of the bloodiest episodes since its re-emergence in 2021. In parallel, the Allied Democratic Forces, linked to jihadist extremism, intensified their attacks in North Kivu and Ituri, claiming the lives of at least 52 civilians so far in August. One of the most shocking attacks occurred in Komanda, where insurgents stormed into a church during a night vigil and fired indiscriminately on worshippers, killing some 40 people, including women and children. These events are all the more alarming because they are occurring in parallel to recently agreed peace processes, whose commitments are simply not being fulfilled. The bilateral agreement between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda, signed in Washington D.C. on 27 June, established clear commitments: the withdrawal of foreign troops within 90 days, the creation of a joint security mechanism and operations against the Forces démocratiques de libération du Rwanda. However, the initial deadlines have already been missed. The meeting of the joint mechanism did not take place, the withdrawal of troops did not begin, and the operations to neutralize militias have not been launched. Similarly, the deadline for a definitive agreement between the Congolese Government and the M23 expired on 18 August, without a concrete result being achieved. And although we note the negotiations, thanks to the mediation of Qatar, the parties are not showing signs of détente on the ground but are instead reinforcing their military positions. This disconnect between the commitments signed and the reality on the ground is deeply troubling. The sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Democratic Republic of the Congo are non-negotiable. The Council has already, on repeated occasions, condemned the presence of unauthorized foreign forces and the imposition of parallel administrations by the M23. We reiterate that any unauthorized military forces must withdraw immediately. Likewise, all armed groups — the M23, the Allied Democratic Forces, the Forces démocratiques de libération du Rwanda and others — must immediately cease their The Democratic Republic of the Congo, for its part, must redouble its efforts to dismantle all militias on its territory, fulfilling its commitment to neutralize the Forces Démocratiques pour la Libération du Rwanda and ensuring the protection of its population. On behalf of Panama, we express our strong condemnation of the recent massacres and all violations of human rights and international humanitarian law committed in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Impunity cannot prevail. Those responsible for war crimes must be held accountable, regardless of their rank or affiliation. The Council should consider additional sanctions against those who finance or support armed groups and strengthen monitoring and investigation mechanisms to bring perpetrators to justice. The Congolese people deserve more than words. They deserve peace, security and dignity. We cannot allow the agreements to remain a dead letter while weapons speak louder than commitments. As President of the Council, Panama reaffirms its commitment to active neutrality, defending the principles of the Charter of the United Nations and promoting peaceful solutions. I now resume my functions as President of the Council. I give the floor to the representative of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

On behalf of the Government and the people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, I thank the United States and Panama for convening and organizing this emergency meeting, and I thank the Secretary-General, His Excellency Mr. António Guterres, for his steadfast commitment to my country’s cause. I also thank, in particular, Assistant Secretary-General Martha Pobee for her briefing this morning. The eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo has been at war for too long. Since 2021, the aggression of the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF)-Mouvement du 23 mars (M23) coalition has plunged our provinces into a humanitarian disaster, creating almost 7 million displaced persons. The peak was reached in January and February, when the towns of Goma and Bukavu were overrun by the Rwandan Defence Forces and the Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC)/M23 terrorists. In resolution 2773 (2025), unanimously adopted on 21 February, the Council demanded the immediate withdrawal of the M23 and RDF and the end of all Rwandan support. To date, however, these provisions have gone unheeded. While the implementation of the provisions of this resolution is still pending, we salute the leadership of the United States of America, which created conditions for dialogue conducive to the conclusion, on 27 June in Washington D.C., of a peace agreement between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda. This agreement provides for the disengagement, disarmament and conditional integration of non-State armed groups into the Forces armées de la République démocratique du Congo and the Congolese National Police, a joint security coordination mechanism and a mechanism for respect for the territorial integrity of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the cessation of hostilities. In the same spirit, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the AFC/M23 signed a Declaration of Principles in Doha, in the form of a preliminary agreement committing the parties to work together to find a peaceful solution to the conflict. The document sets out the fundamental principles and values that will guide the actions of the parties involved in the peace process. It aims to establish a framework Despite all these peace initiatives, we remain concerned, in the light of recent developments, about the sincerity of the commitment of Rwanda and its AFC/ M23 proxies, who continue to breach their commitments under the terms of the Washington peace agreement and the Doha declaration of principles. I would like to provide the following examples as proof of this. First, in July, more than 300 Congolese civilians were killed in several localities in Rutshuru territory, North Kivu province, as a result of attacks carried out by the AFC/M23 coalition, in flagrant violation of the ceasefire reaffirmed in the Washington peace agreement of 27 June and the Doha declaration of principles of 19 July. Secondly, the information gathered by the competent services and corroborated by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights shows that the majority of the victims, including many women and children, were defenceless civilians summarily executed. During the period from 2 July to 2 August alone, these abuses occurred alongside serious violations, including more than 125 cases of sexual violence, hundreds of forced recruitments, including of children, more than 300 acts of torture, looting and burning of property and the transfer of unidentified individuals to areas under the control of the AFC/M23. Thirdly, the final report of the Group of Experts on the Democratic Republic of the Congo (S/2025/446) highlights indisputably the structural link between the M23 and Rwanda. It also shows that Rwanda is providing active military, logistical and operational support to this armed movement, thereby directly fuelling the continuation of the killing, causing massive and forced displacement of people and worsening the persistent destabilization of the east of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, as confirmed this morning by Ms. Pobee. These crimes have a clear ethnic dimension: civilians, in particular Hutus, have been targeted solely based on their ethnicity. It is a deliberate attempt to reshape the Congolese social fabric through violence. In the light of this evidence, the Democratic Republic of the Congo calls on the Council to strengthen the sanctions regime without delay by including the AFC/M23 commanders and Rwandan officials and to condemn the transfer by the AFC/M23 of unidentified individuals on Congolese territory. By defending its own resolution 2773 (2025), the Council will protect civilians, restore the credibility of the peace process and finally ensure accountability. The Council’s recent history is full of examples of decisions to target sanctions against parties engaged in peace processes when they sabotage them through killings and mass violations. The Council has already shown that sanctions are not contrary to peace; rather, they are necessary to make it possible. There is no reason why the case of the Democratic Republic of the Congo should be an exception. By refusing to impose such measures against the M23 and its Rwandan backers, the Council would risk condoning impunity, undermining resolution 2773 (2025) and eroding its own credibility and legitimacy. No peace process can survive impunity. Protecting human lives is non-negotiable. To remain a spectator faced with such crimes would be a form of complicity. Protecting human life, including all communities, is non-negotiable and remains at the heart of any Government’s efforts. The Security Council cannot stand by as impunity takes root. Justice and rigorous sanctions are not of secondary importance; they are preconditions for any lasting and balanced settlement of the conflict. For the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the priority remains restoring a lasting peace In this context, the Government calls emphatically on the Security Council to assume its full responsibility by mobilizing, without delay, all the necessary means for the effective implementation of the independent commission of inquiry envisaged by Human Rights Council resolution S-37/1, adopted on 7 February at the thirty-seventh special session of the Human Rights Council. The commission must establish the full truth surrounding the crimes committed in this context of aggression, identify unambiguously their perpetrators, backers and accomplices and ensure that they are all brought to justice. It must also recommend measures to achieve accountability, including by sharing information with the sanctions committee of the Council to ensure that its conclusions lead to binding decisions and help to prevent killing of any kind, including killing based on ethnicity.

I now give the floor to the representative of Rwanda.

I would like to start by thanking you, Mr. President, for convening this meeting, and I thank the Assistant Secretary-General for her presentation. I also thank all delegations for their statements. Rwanda reiterates its full support for the ongoing peace efforts, especially the Washington and Doha tracks. Achieving durable peace requires commitment and constructive engagement from all parties. We thank the Government of the United States of America, the Government of Qatar and regional leaders for their tremendous efforts in this regard. In a tangible demonstration of political will, the Rwandan Parliament unanimously ratified the Washington peace agreement on 29 July. Together, the Washington and Doha processes, alongside the African Union-coordinated East African Community-Southern African Development Community framework, offer a unique opportunity to address the root causes of the crisis in a results-oriented manner, once and for all. The conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has a direct impact on Rwanda, in both security and humanitarian terms. Waves of violence and discrimination have pushed more than 100,000 refugees into Rwanda, and unfortunately, they are not spoken about as they should be. For three decades, Rwanda has defended its people against attacks by the Kinshasa-backed Forces démocratiques de libération du Rwanda (FDLR) and its affiliates. It is therefore in Rwanda’s vital interest to see a peaceful and well-governed Democratic Republic of the Congo, with the root causes of the conflict resolved and durable peace and prosperity achieved. This is why the Washington and Doha processes are critical. This is also why Rwanda calls on the Council to lend its full support to these efforts and to hold all parties equally accountable. Today’s meeting is taking place amid grave and utterly unfounded allegations against my country. Rwanda is ready to cooperate with any credible and independent investigation, as we have done in the past, including with the recent facilitation given to the Human Rights Council’s fact-finding mission in the region. On the alleged massacre of civilians in Rutshuru, the initial reporting of facts has been contradictory, vague and, in many respects, outright implausible. Only an impartial and independent investigation can provide the Council with a reliable While there has been an overwhelming focus on alleged violations by Alliance Fleuve Congo/Mouvement du 23 mars (AFC/M23), the United Nations Joint Human Rights Office and other actors have consistently neglected the documented and undisputed atrocities committed against civilians in Minembwe in South Kivu, Nturo in Masisi, and Ituri, including drone strikes in civilian areas, in violation of international humanitarian law; arbitrary arrests and mass detentions based on ethnicity; public humiliation targeting specific communities; and the propagation of dehumanizing speech in schools and places of worship. As I listened to the statements by some of the delegations in this room, I realized that this organized pattern of disinformation has farther-reaching implications than we had even thought. There is no reference in the Security Council Chamber to the ethnicity of the alleged victims. The report says that the information was given by phone and satellite. Was the verification of ethnicity also established by phone and satellite? The Council is falling into the trap of the ideology of further overemphasizing the ethnic aspect of the situation in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. Calling for an investigation is not too much to ask. Just investigate, or do the minimum: ask those who did the initial report to do a little more. There is a delegation that said — rightly so — that human beings are not statistics. The way the issue is being handled, and if we end here, means that the Council is treating them as mere statistics. There is no information before the Council about who the victims that we are talking about are. How was their ethnicity established? Those are basic questions that the Council must ask. It is no accident that these campaigns emerge at politically sensitive moments such as this one, in which the parties are preparing to return to negotiations in Doha and are beginning implementation of the Washington peace agreement between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda, including the neutralization of the Democratic Republic of the Congo- backed FDLR. This group remains the principal driver of conflict, violence and human rights abuses in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. Selectivity undermines the credibility of United Nations reports and the pursuit of genuine accountability. This issue has been officially raised by Rwanda in the Council and with the Secretary-General multiple times. Rwanda is deeply concerned about the repeated ceasefire violations by the forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo in recent weeks, including by Wazalendo and the Democratic Republic of the Congo-backed FDLR, units operating at the direction of the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and about credible reports of new military build-ups in Uvira and other areas and what this means in terms of the good-faith commitment of the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the peace process. Additionally, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and certain countries with historical interests have downplayed or obscured the existence and the dangerous activities of the Democratic Republic of the Congo-backed FDLR. The phrase “Rwanda-backed AFC/M23” has been used here extensively. I did not hear a single delegation talk about the Kinshasa-backed FDLR. Is it for lack of evidence that this group is backed by the Kinshasa Government? I know that the Council has a working methodology, according to which certain language is adopted. But is there no objective criteria for adopting certain language? Do Council Let me remind the Council who the FDLR is. They are the remnants of the people who were killing 10,000 people every day in 1994, when the Council adopted resolution 912 (1994) to withdraw United Nations forces from Rwanda. They continued to kill 10,000 people on average every day when the Council adopted resolution 929 (1994) to provide them with safe passage when they were fleeing to the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Those are the same people who continued to pursue their intent. Forget about their military capabilities — consider their intent. In the spirit of the 1948 Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, that is something that must concern the Security Council. The question of the FDLR is treated as a mere afterthought in statements. That is not right. It is central to the problem that we have in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and it must be treated as such. We are also disappointed that the Democratic Republic of the Congo did not agree to launch the concept of operations for neutralizing the Kinshasa-backed FDLR at the first meeting of the joint security coordination mechanism, on 7 August, but we remain hopeful that this will be rectified at the next meeting. On behalf of my Government, I want to make the commitment that Rwanda will not be found wanting in terms of what we have to do to meet our commitments under the Washington peace agreement between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda and whatever we have to do to ensure lasting peace in our region and in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. Therefore, before I conclude, I would just like to make one statement of a general nature. Yes, the territorial integrity of the Democratic Republic of the Congo is non-negotiable. So, too, is the territorial integrity of neighbours of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, including Rwanda. And respect for the territorial integrity and sovereign obligations of any member country of the United Nations includes fair treatment of citizens. Sovereignty comes along with obligations. The Democratic Republic of the Congo must stop mistreating part of its population and treating them as less than citizens, and the Council must uphold its obligation to defend that central tenet of the United Nations. All people must be equally protected. The Council must take a posture that ensures that every victim and every potential victim is able to get its attention.

The representative of the Democratic Republic of the Congo has asked for the floor to make a further statement.

On 21 February 2025, when the Security Council met in this Chamber to adopt its resolution 2773 (2025) (see S/PV.9865), the atmosphere in this Chamber suggested that the Security Council reserved the right to return here to assess the degree of implementation of its resolution 2773 (2025) and would take meaningful measures in the event of failure by one of the parties to fulfil its obligations. Today, I believe that the Council’s task is precisely that. Council members have noted, as have all the organizations in the United Nations system — as we were told this morning — that it is Rwanda and its Mouvement du 23 mars (M23) supporters who are jeopardizing the implementation of resolution 2773 (2025) and the various agreements that have been reached to date. The Council will therefore have to assume its responsibilities. I would like to come back to just one point. It is not surprising that Rwanda is questioning the report on the massacres committed by the M23. This is in Rwanda’s DNA. They act through the M23 and But that is a joke. We saw the fall of Goma and Bukavu. The images exist. Satellites showed columns of Rwandan troops entering the town of Goma in broad daylight. Where have we seen the FDLR supported by the Congolese army anywhere? They do not exist. It is a decoy. We know that Rwanda is in the Democratic Republic of the Congo to exploit its minerals. Everyone knows that. The various reports have always demonstrated this. We will not keep the Council long. Members know all they need to know about this issue. We believe that lies have no place in the Security Council. I have said my piece. I will not speak further.

The representative of Rwanda has asked for the floor to make a further statement.

Well, briefly, in the interests of time, I wanted to reiterate that Rwanda will remain compliant with what we are supposed to do within the framework of the Washington agreement. Talking about resolution 2773 (2025), it provides for what the Democratic Republic of the Congo Government should also do so. Whoever refers to it must refer to it in its full extent. I will not repeat the explanation of how the Democratic Republic of the Congo Government supports the Forces démocratiques de libération du Rwanda because there is ample verified information available to the Council and available to the United Nations. In regard to proximity, talking about minerals, if we were able to confirm that Rwandan troops can walk to the Democratic Republic of the Congo on foot, then we should also be able to acknowledge that we are close enough to be sitting on the same geological rock.