First, the United Kingdom urges the parties in eastern DRC to continue to engage in good faith in the ongoing peace processes facilitated by the United States and Qatar.
These processes, alongside leadership by the African Union, provide the best opportunity to deliver the peace, prosperity and security that the people of eastern DRC deserve.
We thank all the facilitators for their efforts.
Now it is time for the commitments to be implemented.
Second, the United Kingdom calls on all parties in eastern DRC to protect civilians and to facilitate humanitarian access in accordance with international humanitarian law.
The United Kingdom continues to support humanitarian efforts in eastern DRC through the provision of approximately $80 million of lifesaving assistance this financial year.
We are greatly concerned by continued reports of human rights violations and abuses, including conflict related sexual violence, by the parties to the conflict, and in particular by M23 and Wazalendo.
We remind all parties of their obligations under international human rights law and humanitarian law, and the clear demands of the Council set out in Security Council resolution 2773.
This includes the withdrawal of Rwandan Defence Forces from the DRC’s territory.
The United Kingdom emphasises its full support to MONUSCO and its leadership and looks forward to upcoming discussions on MONUSCO’s mandate.
We stress that obstructions to MONUSCO’s operations, particularly in areas occupied by M23, are unacceptable and must stop.
Third, the United Kingdom notes with concern the growing constraints on civil space and freedom of expression across the region, as highlighted in the latest report by the Secretary-General.
We underscore the importance of safeguarding these fundamental rights, which are essential for inclusive governance, accountability, and long-term stability.
And we urge all countries in the Great Lakes region, but particularly those approaching elections, to make every effort to uphold civic space and to protect freedom of expression.