July 8, 2024
Thank you, Madam President.
I would like to express my gratitude to SRSG Keita for her briefing. I welcome the participation of the representatives from the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda.
The attacks in May against the Presidential Palace and the residence of the former DRC Vice Prime Minister for Economy in Kinshasa have given us grave concern. We strongly condemn these acts, and the assailants must be made accountable. We are also worried about the continuous incidents causing a number of victims, especially in East DRC.
The horrifying incident of shelling against IDP camps in the same month is another consequence of the continued heavy fighting between M23, the Armed Forces of the DRC, and other armed groups. We strongly condemn such attacks. The victims, including women and children, are in the most vulnerable conditions, having fled human rights violations and abuse to gain shelter at the camp. The increased offensive by armed groups including M23 is devastating the lives of local people and threatening human security. They must immediately cease hostilities and lay down their arms. In this context, Japan welcomes recently reached two weeks truce agreement. We sincerely hope this will be fully implemented.
The shelling incident by M23 again shows the presence of heavy weaponry in close proximity to the civilian population. Crossfire in the vicinity makes humanitarian access to IDP camps impossible, and those in need face increased risk of abuse including sexual violence. Actions must be taken to prevent another case involving civilian casualties. We reiterate the utmost importance of respecting human rights and upholding applicable obligations under international humanitarian law.
The reported large quantities of sophisticated artillery brought from outside and presence of disguised foreign troops remain deeply concerning. Ongoing support of any kind by any states to M23 and any other armed groups must be stopped immediately.
Continuation of such support is bringing the region to the verge of all-out conflict. It is essential to preserve the sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of the DRC.
We continue to support ongoing national and regional initiatives to overcome differences, alleviate tensions among stakeholders and seek sustainable solutions through inclusive dialogues. The government-led agreement to cease hostilities between several armed groups in Ituri should be reinforced by security and confidence building measures, including implementation of the Disarmament, Demobilization, Community Recovery and Stabilization Programme.
Angola has been playing a commendable role in the mediation between Rwanda and the DRC. The Luanda Process needs to be observed by all parties in a sincere manner, and we call for avoiding any actions that risk derailing it. SAMIDRC has been trying to help build a conducive environment for the implementation of regional initiatives. Any possible assistance to SAMIDRC by the UN should be provided in strict compliance with the UN Human Rights Due Diligence Policy (HRDDP) as stressed in the SG letter on possible options.
We have received the joint report on the first phase of MONUSCO’s disengagement. A further gradual, responsible and sustainable withdrawal requires a synchronized deployment of adequate national security forces to ensure protection of civilians. We continue to encourage the DRC to promote its nationally owned security sector reform with necessary budgetary measures under the leadership of the newly formed government. Japan continues to support the government’s efforts to develop community policing through capacity and institution building for promoting the rule of law.
Japan will continue working together with all partners for sustainable peace and stability in the region.
I thank you.