The situation in the Great Lakes region - Security Council, 10240th meeting

The 10,240th meeting of the Security Council is called to order. The provisional agenda for this meeting is the situation in the Great Lakes region. The agenda is adopted. In accordance with rule 37 of the Council's provisional rules of procedure, I invite the representative of Burundi to participate in this meeting. It is so decided. In accordance with Rule 39 of the Council's provisional rules of procedure, I invite Mr. Juan Xia, Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for the Great Lakes Region, to participate in this meeting. It is so decided. The Security Council will now begin its consideration of item 2 of the agenda. I wish to draw to the attention of Council members to document S/2026/782, 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.

Madame President. Distinguished members of the Security Council, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to brief you on recent developments in the Great Lakes region. Since my last briefing to this Council, regional and international mobilization in support of a peaceful resolution of the conflict in eastern DRC has continued. The Washington and Doha processes have achieved notable progress. In addition to the continued engagement of the parties within these two processes, I would like to highlight two significant developments. The first is the signing by the Congolese authorities and representatives of the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda, FDLR, of a protocol concerning their disarmament, demobilization and cantonment. This step was followed by the development of an operational plan and a one-year roadmap. as well as terms of reference for a monitoring committee. The second development concerns the operationalization of the Enhanced Joint Verification Mechanism Plus, the EJVM Plus, which conducted its first verification missions in Minembwe, South Kivu, in August, and in Masisi, North Kivu, in September. These developments constitute encouraging progress toward the implementation of agreements already concluded. The African Union has also continued its efforts, notably through the implementation of the roadmap and six-month action plan adopted in Gaborone, Botswana, in July, in order to harmonize mediation efforts. In this regard, a mission of the Panel of Facilitators travelled from 5 to 11 October to Goma, Kigali and Kinshasa in order to assess the situation and further guide collective action toward implementing commitments made in support of peace and stability in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Great Lakes region. Madam President, distinguished members of the Council, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen. As my esteemed colleague, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and head of MONUSCO, James Swan, described in his briefing to the Security Council last September, despite this sustained diplomatic effort, the security and humanitarian situation in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo has continued to worsen. This worsening of the situation has occurred in a regional context marked by persistent tensions that continue to undermine peace efforts. A genuine ceasefire remains difficult to achieve, despite the unanimous call made by this Council in its resolutions 2773 of 2025 and 2808 of 2025. Hostilities continue in several areas, with a devastating human cost for the civilian populations. The increasing use of armed drones in populated areas further aggravates civilian suffering. Added to this situation is the spread of the Ebola virus disease. Developments in the east have major repercussions on regional dynamics. marked by tensions between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda, as well as persistent mistrust between Burundi and Rwanda. This climate of distrust continues to affect both the developments of the conflict and the prospects for peace in the region. In response to these interrelated challenges, I have intensified my good offices efforts in close coordination with the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and head of MONUSCO, Mr. Swan, in order to preserve channels of dialogue, to promote de-escalation of regional tensions, and mobilize coherent regional and international support. As part of these efforts, My office has continued its engagement in support of the women, peace and security agenda. On the 21st of September, we co-organized in New York, together with the African Union and the European Union, a high-level meeting bringing together, among others, the facilitators and other representatives of the African Union-led mediation. ministers and senior officials from countries of the region, as well as partners. Discussions highlighted the importance of better linking local initiatives with the ongoing diplomatic efforts and ensuring the full, equal, effective and meaningful participation of women at all stages of peace processes. including the Doha process. My office is also continuing its efforts to support more transparent and accountable management of natural resources in the region. In this context, on the 8th of October, we organized in Lusaka, in partnership with the International Conference of the Great Lakes Region, the ICGLR, and the Kimberley Process Secretariat, an exchange of best practices aimed at strengthening the regional initiative against the illegal exploitation of natural resources. Discussions made it possible to identify concrete avenues for improving transparency, traceability and accountability in regional supply chains. The recommendations arising from these exchanges were endorsed by the Ministers of Mines of ICGLR Member States yesterday, 12 October. Finally, my office has continued to promote regional cooperation on security matters. In this regard, In close collaboration with the ICGLR, we will facilitate a meeting on the 18th of October in Lusaka of the ministers of defence of the member countries of the Contact and Coordination Group, namely Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania. This meeting will examine a draft standard operating procedures relating to the disarmament, demobilization, repatriation and reintegration of members of foreign armed groups. These procedures aim to strengthen coordination among the countries concerned and could thereby contribute to efforts to address the threat that the FDLR the ADF, the Red Tabara, and other foreign armed groups continue to pose throughout the region. Madam President, distinguished members of the Council, ladies and gentlemen, the question before us all is how to bridge the clear gap existing between the progress achieved thanks to diplomatic efforts and the reality on the ground. In this regard, allow me to offer four observations on areas where the Council's sustained attention can still make a difference. Firstly, we need to strengthen the strategic role of the African Union. Thanks to the sustained efforts of mediators, the various facilitation and mediation initiatives are becoming increasingly aligned. The priority now is to give the African Union a more substantial role, both in guiding negotiations as well as in supporting the implementation of agreed commitments. Such enhanced involvement could provide a common direction drawing on the expertise and institutional memory of previous processes, as well as a shared African vision of sustainable peace, and could help further align the various initiatives. Secondly, peace efforts must be more inclusive. Sustainable peace requires going beyond the mere participation of women to ensure their real influence on decision-making. This was the unequivocal message that emerged from the high-level meeting of the 21st of September. This implies collectively ensuring that the perspectives of civil society, particularly women and young people, are from now on integrated into all stages of the process, from the preparation and conduct of negotiations, right up to the implementation, verification and monitoring mechanisms of agreements. Thirdly, de-escalation and confidence-building measures must be pursued relentlessly. In a context of persistent mistrust, rebuilding confidence among leaders, countries and communities remains essential to the success of peace processes. And it's in this regard that African Union mediation has an important role to play complementing the Washington and Doha processes. For my part, I will continue to support unrelentingly confidence-building measures, both at the political level as well as through concrete initiatives aimed at fostering regional cooperation. And fourthly, sustainable peace will require addressing the economic and structural drivers of the conflict. In this regard, it is important to strengthen regional initiatives against the illegal exploitation of natural resources and its flagship tool, that of the ICGLR regional initiative, namely the regional certification mechanism. All of this in order to enhance transparency, traceability and accountability in mineral value chains. The forthcoming completion of the reform of the regional mechanism will constitute an important step in this direction. Madam President, distinguished members of the Council, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, all these priorities must form part of a long-term strategic vision aimed at sustainably addressing the root causes of instability in the Great Lakes region. This is the vision embodied in the Addis Ababa Framework Agreement. As the principal regional instrument designed to address the root causes of conflict, the Addis Ababa Framework Agreement represents a strategic and collective ambition for peace and regional cooperation. The process of its revitalization must therefore be brought to completion and driven by renewed determination on the part of its signatory countries. Support for this process will remain at the heart of my office's work, which will continue to be fully engaged alongside the States of the region and their partners in supporting its effective implementation. Madam President, distinguished members of the Security Council, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, allow me to conclude by stressing the urgency of seizing the window of opportunity which is currently offered by the increased alignment of peace efforts. Such a window does not remain open indefinitely. I therefore urge all parties to translate commitments into verifiable actions. and to place their trust in confidence built through deeds rather than through declarations. Thank you.

I thank Mr. Hsiao for his briefing. I now give the floor to those Council members who wish to make statements. I give the floor to the representative of France.

Thank you, Madam President. At the outset, I would like to thank Mr. Hsiao, Special Envoy, for his briefing. Also, Thank you for the very specific instructions he gave us, regards what needs to be done and operational recommendations for the Council as well. Thank you for the close cooperation you're engaged with, with Mr. Swan, the SRSG, with whom you've worked jointly on a significant scale. I also welcome the representative of Burundi in the Chamber today, Madame President, the ongoing activities of armed groups in the east of the DRC is fueling insecurity for civilians, as well as the risks of destabilization in the Great Lakes region as a whole. The priority is to continue collective efforts so as to put an end to the hostilities in the east of the DRC and take forward the peace processes. There is an urgent need to bridge the gap between the commitments undertaken by the parties and the reality of the situation on the ground. We are following with a keen interest the recent developments characterized by the recent restructuring of armed movements within the country, and we call for the strict respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the DRC. Madam President, first and foremost, the ceasefire must be concretized, and its verification mechanism is already being operationalized. France welcomes the two first field missions steered by the expanded Joint Verification Mechanism plus in Minembwe and Masisi. We thank MONUSCO for the support it's provided in keeping with its mandate as revised by the Council in December, as well as the African Union and the International Conference for the Great Lakes Region. Thank you for your support. We reiterate our support for mediation and the international partners who have contributed to this result: the US, Qatar, Switzerland and Togo. In particular, we call on everyone to support the African Union's mediation efforts. The recent visits of the three facilitators to the DRC and Rwanda made a useful contribution to the peace process. Additional efforts are expected from the parties to ensure the mechanism is durable and to make a permanent cessation of hostilities a reality. Second, we call on the parties to comprehensively and unconditionally implement Resolution 2773, as well as the agreements entered into under the auspices of Doha and Washington. The Democratic Republic of the Congo has submitted to the Council a protocol for the demobilization of the FDLR. They did this in July. We welcome the Congolese authorities' involvement in the effective neutralization of the FDLR and the cessation of any collaboration therewith, in keeping with resolution 2773. We call for the swift implementation of the protocol. We stand ready to assist all progress, working together with other Council members. Furthermore, we'd like to recall the provisions of resolution 2773 the call on the Rwandan Defence Forces to unconditionally withdraw from Congolese territory and to cease any support provided to the M23. Third, the Council should support regional efforts and those of the Special Envoy, which seek to address the structural drivers of the conflict. This includes, and this was mentioned by the Special Envoy, the fight against the illicit exploitation and trafficking of natural resources, which continue to fund armed group activity and to dispossess the local populace of the wealth it is entitled to. The Council must remain actively seized of the situation by exercising pressure on the parties so that they uphold their obligations and commitments. The Council should also stand ready to adopt measures against actors hindering peace, as we have done when we sanctioned six individuals and two entities in July. Last but not least, on the humanitarian front, IHL should be respected by all parties to the conflict under all circumstances. Against a backdrop that's made more complex by the Ebola epidemic, it's absolutely vital that we support the response mounted by the Congolese authorities, together with the UN and international and regional partners. Madam President, the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Jean-Noel Barrot, went to Kinshasa and Bunia on the 2nd and 3rd of October, where he expressed France's solidarity with the people being confronted with the consequences of this conflict, including victims of gender-based violence and the Ebola epidemic, as well as our solidarity with actors mobilized on the ground. The Minister announced that France will be mounting an additional response to the Ebola epidemic and reiterated France's support to all peace efforts, national, regional, and international. I thank you.

Representative of France for the statement. I now give the floor to the representative of the United States.

Thank you, Madam President. And thank you, Special Envoy Shah, for your briefing, and warm welcome to our colleague from Burundi to the Council this morning. The United States is deeply concerned by the impacts of the ongoing Ebola outbreak in the DRC. Safe, unhindered access for health responders and the protection of medical personnel and facilities are critical to saving lives. We thank all of the humanitarian, security, and peacekeeping personnel risking their lives to help address this crisis. Colleagues, the Washington Accords for Peace and Prosperity represent a historic opportunity to advance peace, stability, and prosperity in eastern DRC and across the Great Lakes region. Realizing that promise requires the DRC and Rwanda to implement their obligations fully and without delay. We urge the parties to uphold the ceasefire, halt harmful drone strikes, and refrain from inflammatory rhetoric. All Security Council members should reinforce these expectations and maintain pressure for implementation. We thank Qatar for its continued facilitation and urge the DRC and AFCM 23 through their newly rebranded alliance, the Front for the Refoundation of the Nation, to build on the progress made in Switzerland to conclude the remaining Doha protocols. We welcome the AU's mediation under President Nassingbe of Togo and the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region's contributions. close coordination among these efforts and with the Washington and Doha processes remains essential. The first expanded joint verification mechanism plus missions to Minembwe and Masisi demonstrate how impartial verification can help the DRC and AFC M23 investigate alleged violations and resolve disputes. We commend the UN Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo's, MONUSCO's, essential operational support and urge the parties to facilitate further missions promptly. The DRC's transfer of 15 detainees to AFC M23 under the prisoner exchange protocol is a welcome confidence building measure. Sustained follow through on such commitments can build the trust necessary for progress at the negotiating table. The Joint Security Coordination Mechanism's October planning conference provides an opportunity to define actionable next steps for ensuring both the DRC and Rwanda implement their Washington Accords obligations. We urge the two parties to use this mechanism to exchange information and advance agreed operations. Within the DRC, progress towards the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda, the FDLR, neutralization must continue. Any current cooperation between the FDLR and elements of the Congolese armed forces must cease immediately. The repatriation of more than 120 FDLR ex-combatants and family members, supported by MONUSCO, represents tangible progress. The DRC government's recent plan for further demobilization has the potential to be an encouraging step. We urge the DRC to clarify the operational details of its proposed plan and begin implementation promptly. Coordination with MONUSCO and regional and international partners will be critical to translating that plan into results. Progress on FDLR neutralization must be matched by Rwanda's fulfillment of its own obligations. Rwanda must immediately and unconditionally withdraw its troops and military equipment from the DRC and cease all support to M23. The United States will continue to take action against those who obstruct peace, abuse civilians, or profit from the illegal exploitation of the DRC's natural resources. The United States remains committed to supporting peace, security, and prosperity across the Great Lakes. We look to all parties to consolidate recent gains through sustained cooperation and verifiable action. I thank you.

I thank the representative of the United States for the statement. I now give the floor to the representative of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Madam President, it is an honor for me to deliver the statement on behalf of the A3. Liberia, Somalia and my own country, the Democratic Republic of the Congo. We'd like to thank the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for the Great Lakes region for his briefing. Madam President, in light of the worsening crisis, the A3 welcomes the Washington and Doha processes, the African Union-led mediation, as well as all regional efforts and initiatives. These approaches should continue to complement each other and be African-led. In the same spirit, we welcome the establishment of the expanded Joint Verification Mechanism Plus, as well as the deployment of the first field missions. The effectiveness of these missions will depend on the cooperation of the parties, as well as adequate support and verifiable progress. We therefore call for sufficient resources to be provided to MONUSCO and the Office of the Special Envoy. We urge all parties to uphold their commitments, including those arising from Resolution 2773 and related agreements. These are commitments on de-escalation, disengagement, drone strike restrictions, the lifting of defensive measures, the neutralization of the FDLR, and safe humanitarian access. On the ground, the security situation in the eastern DRC remains deeply disquieting. in particular due to the expansion of the AFC M23 in North Kivu and South Kivu. We condemn attacks against civilians and urge all armed actors to cease hostilities, to uphold international humanitarian law and international human rights law, as well as to ensure safe, rapid and unfettered humanitarian access. Recourse to heavy weapons and drones, as well as cross-border incidents, are endangering civilians and heightening the risks of escalation. Madam President, Aside from the security front, lasting peace requires addressing the root causes of regional instability. Illicit resource exploitation and trafficking, is helping to fund armed actors, it's weakening state authority and depriving communities of their wealth. The A3 calls for stronger regional cooperation on traceability, verification, oversight, certification, border management, as well as responsible mineral supply chains, ensuring that accountability stretches beyond the region. natural resources should foster cooperation and development rather than confrontation. On this note, the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework remains the main regional instrument for addressing the root causes of the conflict, for rebuilding trust and advancing cooperation on security, governance, justice and economic integration. We reaffirm our unstinting support to the sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, as well as to the sovereignty of all states in the region. We urge the Council to remain united behind an inclusive, African-led path to peace that is also rooted in accountability. The people of the Great Lakes region need tangible progress, not a new cycle of violence and forced displacement. Madam President, I would now like to make a number of comments in a national capacity. Madam President, the Democratic Republic of the Congo would like to thank the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for the high caliber of his report. We've taken note of the report S/2026/782 on the implementation of the framework agreement for peace, security and cooperation for the DRC and the Great Lakes region. Now, this report underscores persistent hostilities, the occupation of part of the national territory by armed groups, and the ongoing suffering by armed groups, despite diplomatic initiatives underway. The priority is not to continue emitting statements of intent, but rather to guarantee the comprehensive implementation of the commitments that have been made and Council decisions that have been handed down, together with accountability mechanisms underpinned by verifiable facts. I would now like to set forth the main priorities for my government. First, respect. for sovereignty, the withdrawal of foreign forces. These are non-negotiable. The DRC reaffirms in the strongest possible terms and unambiguously so our unswerving commitment to our sovereignty, independence, national unity and territorial integrity, as well as for the absolute respect for the inviolability of our internationally recognized borders. We vigorously condemn the offensive waged by the Rwandan Defence Forces and their proxies, the AFC M23, in North and South Kivu, as highlighted by the Security Council in its resolution 2773. A parallel administration that has been established in occupied territories in a manifest violation of the DRC's sovereignty. It is directly calling into question the legitimate authority of the state. It is an unacceptable attempt to institutionalize facts on the ground. Such a structure established outside all legal and constitutional frameworks cannot confer any legitimacy to this de facto occupation, nor can it create legal facts which could potentially call into question the sovereign authority of the Congolese state. Resolution 2773 must be implemented in full, without any selective interpretations nor any conditionalities. This requires, first and foremost, the immediate cessation of all external support provided to the FCM23, the withdrawal of Rwandan forces from Congolese territory, and an end to all activities aimed at consolidating, using force, of territorial gains. These obligations cannot be delayed indefinitely, nor can they be made conditional on unilateral requirements, which would strip the resolution of the Security Council of its meaning. The DRC is in a mood of peace and believes that the security of the states in the region should be addressed through political, diplomatic channels and through mutually agreed verification, with full respect for international law. No security concerns, whether it is presumed, alleged or real, can justify a military intervention on the territory of a neighboring state, nor can it justify an occupation of that territory, the displacement of its people, nor support for armed groups which are compromising the sovereignty of that state. Second, reciprocal commitments, but distinct obligations. The DRC is continuing to implement the measures it announced regarding the FDLR, in particular disarmament, cantonment and repatriation, including appropriate verification. In this unagreed terms, we will continue to address this matter in a transparent and responsible fashion. The progress that's been made by the DRC should get a parallel, verifiable response from Rwanda, in keeping with Resolution 2773 and the relevant commitments under the Washington Process. Reciprocity does not mean confusion of responsibilities, nor differentiated responsibilities under international law. It's worth highlighting that the implementation of measures vis-a-vis the FDLR is not a prerequisite for the withdrawal of Rwandan forces, for the cessation of their support to the M23, or for the respect of the territorial integrity of my country. As regards the FDLR, the DRC requests for the Council, through the Group of Experts of the Sanctions Committee, credible and verifiable terms of reference, so that we can genuinely verify the progress that's been made. Third, the effective cessation of hostilities, as well as accountability. The Democratic Republic of the Congo requests for the Security Council to effectively monitor ceasefire commitments and to swiftly enhance verification mechanisms. in particular the MCD+, with the support of MONUSCO, in keeping with MONUSCO's mandate. These mechanisms should enjoy the necessary resources so as to impartially, credibly and independently establish the facts regarding troop movements, violations of the ceasefire and cross-border support provided to armed groups. The Council must monitor that the conclusions of the group of experts provides information on what to do with MONUSCO's mandate and our approach to the region. Verification is not an end in and of itself. Any violations that are proven should result in appropriate consequences being imposed. The Security Council must use the tools at its disposal to pinpoint who is responsible and to sanction them, those fuelling the conflict. On this note, the DRC asks for the Committee established by Resolution 1533 to ensure there is transparency on arms transfers, drones and related systems in Rwanda. Faced with the human consequences of drone strikes on Congolese territory, these drones deployed by the RDF and their support for the M23, the DRC would like for the Security Council, via the Sanctions Committee and the Group of Experts, would like to request for greater transparency on the use of drones, the suppliers, and those deploying the drones. Fourth, putting an end to the war economy and the pillaging of natural resources. Now, there was a public debate on this matter on the 22nd of July here at this Council during the DRC's presidency. The illicit exploitation of natural resources, the trafficking of Congolese natural resources, is not a peripheral phenomenon. It is actively contributing to the funding of armed groups, to the exercise of territorial control via force, and further violence. We cannot whitewash these natural resources through regional or international supply chains. In the report dated document reference 2026466, the group of experts notes that in 2025, there was a resurgence of mining exploitation, specifically coltan, near Rubaya. which is controlled by the AFCM 23. The group of experts also stated that there are systematic taxation mechanisms taxing production and strict control on the supply of these resources. $4 per kilogram of coltan and $2 per kilogram of castor oil. Furthermore, reports published by a number of international organizations, including the including UNICEF, Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International, inter alia. While these reports continue to document ongoing practices such as forced labor, child labor in its worst possible forms, in particular in artisanal mining zones. This attests to the seriousness of human rights violations associated with natural resource exploitation. It speaks to the pressing need to introduce traceability, control, and accountability mechanisms throughout the minerals supply chain. The DRC requests traceability, transparency, and due diligence throughout the entire supply chain, including in countries of transit, processing countries, into ALIA. We call for enhanced cooperation to ensure that we have verifiable data so we can avoid contraband, document fraud, in keeping with relevant legislation. We must stop these actors who are benefiting from illicit trafficking. Peace cannot reign if the profits to be made from war are much higher than the price of achieving peace. Fourth, the Democratic Republic of the Congo remains committed to the Washington and Doha processes, as well as to mediation efforts that are African Union-led. On this note, we commend the African Union panel's commitment. They have just travelled throughout the region, including to Goma, Kigali and Kinshasa, where they undertook discussions with the various authorities and other relevant parties discussing the future of the peace process in the eastern DRC. We recognize the value of these regional consultations. The Democratic Republic of the Congo is of the view that these initiatives should be mutually reinforcing and should be in keeping with respect for Congolese sovereignty. They should be judged by the yardstick of concrete results being achieved on the ground. Their complementarity can cannot dilute responsibility and to multiply competing schedules, nor can it hamper implementation of various agreements. We call on all facilitators, guarantors and partners to ensure they create a consistent framework so that we can monitor verifiable indicators being achieved and keeping with a strict calendar, all of this being reported to the Council. The regional framework. should be reinvigorated so as to address the structural drivers of the conflict, to rebuild trust, and to make regional cooperation a key tool for achieving stability, as opposed to an agreement or a commitment in principle. Eighth, the protection of civilians and the humanitarian emergency. Ongoing fighting, forced displacement, food insecurity, and hindrances to humanitarian access are exacerbating a situation which is already dire. The DRC calls for the cessation of hostilities, for the unstinting support of IHL, as well as international human rights law. We call also for the protection of civilians and critical infrastructure, in addition to safe, swift, lasting and unfettered humanitarian access. Women, children and young people must be protected against violence. Their recruitment, exploitation, and forced displacement, their participation in peace efforts must be effective, not merely symbolic. The restoration of state authority and the reestablishment of public services in affected areas are absolutely vital if we are to ensure safe, voluntary, and dignified return of displaced persons and refugees. This should go hand in hand with security guarantees, justice, and reconciliation so as to avoid that people are repeatedly exposed to cycles of violence. The DRC would like to underscore that the tripartite process on refugee return of Rwandan refugees, which is underway, must be fully implemented. This is a credible return path which has garnered the support of the international community. This is afforded to Rwandan refugees. This is in parallel with the FDLR process for ex-combatants. These are two complementary processes which have received the support of the international community, and they should move forward consistently so as to offer prospects to Rwandan refugees and FDLR ex-combatants. Madam President, the Great Lakes region does not need many more promises. It needs these promises to be made good on, these decisions to be made good on, clear-cut lines of responsibility, and for consequences to come into effect if there are violations. Peace cannot be built on threats, impunity, or the exploitation of the resources of one country using force. The DRC remains committed to a political, African-led, regional-led solution with the assistance of the UN. However, such a solution must also respect our sovereignty and our territorial integrity, guaranteeing the withdrawal of foreign forces, putting an end to support for armed groups, the dismantlement of war economies, and the protection of civilians. We call on the Security Council to ensure that Resolution 2776, as well as relevant commitments, are implemented in full in a coherent and verifiable manner. The Democratic Republic of the Congo stands ready to continue working in good faith, as is our responsibility. We expect all other parties to also comply with their obligations, without any double standards nor complacency. The credibility of the Council, as well as the prospects for peace in the region, will be measured by the yardstick of results on the ground. I thank you, Madam

President, for listening to me so graciously.

Thank you, Madam President. And I would also like to thank Special Envoy Shea for his briefing. Madam President, the situation in the Great Lakes region remains deeply concerning. Continued fighting in the eastern DRC is causing immense human suffering and risk further destabilizing the region. At the same time, we do see important diplomatic efforts underway. I'll make four brief points. First, on ceasefire monitoring and implementation, Denmark welcomes progress in operationalizing the expanded Joint Verification Mechanism Plus, including its first verification missions. We commend MONUSCO for its support to these efforts, in line with its mandate. Effective monitoring and verification are essential to building confidence between the parties and supporting compliance with ceasefire commitments. A durable ceasefire remains the first step towards reducing tensions and creating space for a political solution. Second, on the political track, Denmark welcomes the sustained diplomatic engagement under the Washington and Doha processes and the role of the African Union-led mediation. We encourage continued efforts to strengthen coordination between the different mediation tracks and to support implementation of commitments already undertaken by the parties. There is no military solution to this conflict. All parties and those supporting armed groups must take concrete steps to reduce tensions. Denmark reiterates the Security Council's call for the Rwanda Defence Forces to cease its support to M23 and withdraw from DRC territory. The DRC must refrain from supporting armed groups and ensure the effective neutralization of FDLR. In this regard, we look forward to following the implementation of the protocol signed among the DRC Government and the FDLR. The sovereignty and territorial integrity of the DRC must be respected, and all parties must uphold their commitments under the relevant peace agreements and Security Council resolutions. Third, on the humanitarian situation. Denmark is deeply concerned by the Ebola outbreak in eastern DRC. We urge countries across the region to facilitate cross-border cooperation and humanitarian and public health access, including the movement of health workers, medical supplies, and other essential assistance. Preventing further spread of the virus is critical to avoid increased humanitarian needs in an already highly vulnerable region. And fourth and finally, Madam President, lasting peace in the Great Lakes region also requires strengthened regional economic integration and connectivity, as well as responsible and transparent management of natural resources. The region's resources should contribute to sustainable development and shared prosperity, rather than fuel conflict. Denmark supports regional efforts, including through the regional certification mechanism, to strengthen transparency and traceability of mineral supply chains and prevent the illegal exploitation of national resources from fueling conflicts in the Great Lakes region. In conclusion, Denmark remains committed to supporting African-led and regionally owned efforts to advance peace, security, and cooperation in the Great Lakes region.

representative of Denmark for the statement. I now give the floor to the representative of the United Kingdom.

Many thanks, Madam President, and thank you, Special Envoy Scheer, for your briefing. I also welcome the representative of Burundi to this meeting. There has been welcome diplomatic progress in recent months, but for civilians in eastern DRC, that progress has yet to translate into greater security. I'll make three points. First, the humanitarian situation remains deeply concerning. More than 26 million people in DRC face acute food insecurity, including 3.6 million at emergency levels. Conflict and displacement are compounding the effects of the Ebola outbreak and climate-related shocks. The United Kingdom continues to support the humanitarian response, including our assistance to the Ebola response. but all parties must guarantee safe, rapid and unhindered humanitarian access and remove obstacles to the delivery of life-saving assistance. Second, we welcome progress through the Doha and Washington processes, including recent EJVM+ deployments with the support of MONUSCO, alongside ongoing African Union-led mediation efforts. But to achieve lasting peace, agreements and mechanisms must now deliver tangible improvements for people on the ground. We call on all parties to cease hostilities, implement their commitments in full, and engage constructively and in good faith with the peace processes. The Washington, Doha, and African Union-led processes must reinforce one another with clear coordination and African ownership. Progress also depends on those working for peace being able to do their jobs. All parties must respect MONUSCO's mandate and guarantee the mission the freedom of movement that it needs. And all parties must fully adhere to their obligations under international humanitarian law, including on the protection of civilians. The increasing use of drones, heavy artillery and explosive weaponry in populated areas is increasing the threat to civilians and civilian infrastructure. Third, the ongoing illicit exploitation and trafficking of critical minerals in the region sustains armed groups, undermines trust, and deprives communities of legitimate development. We support the Secretary-General's call for strengthening the regional certification mechanism, and we encourage regional and international actors to work together to ensure stronger traceability and certification mechanisms. The development of critical minerals should reach local communities, not drive conflicts. President, sustained diplomacy has created an opportunity for progress, but its measure will be on what changes on the ground, whether civilians are safer, humanitarian assistance can reach those who need it, and the parties fulfil the commitments that they have made. We urge all parties and regional leaders to turn the present diplomatic momentum into lasting peace. I thank you.

of the United Kingdom for the statement. I now give the floor to the representative of Pakistan.

Thank you, Madam President. I thank Special Envoy Wang Xia for his briefing and reaffirm Pakistan's support for his mandate and good offices. The situation in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo remains fragile and deeply concerning. Continued fighting in North and South Kivu, the activities of armed groups, and the increasing use of drones continue to endanger civilians and undermine regional stability. The Ebola outbreak has added another serious humanitarian challenge. Pakistan reiterates the need for the full implementation of resolutions 2773 and 2808. The immediate priority remains an effective and durable cessation of hostilities, creating the necessary space for a political solution. We welcome the sustained diplomatic engagement under the African Union-led mediation, the Washington Process, and the Doha Framework. Greater coordination among these tracks is encouraging. The challenge now is to translate political commitments into concrete and verifiable progress on the ground. In this regard, the operationalization of the ceasefire monitoring arrangements is an important development. The first EJVM+ verification missions to Minembwe and Misيسي demonstrate that agreed mechanisms can work when the parties cooperate. We encourage further progress towards an effective, credible and impartial ceasefire monitoring architecture. We also welcome the ongoing efforts with respect to the FDLR, including steps towards disarmament and demobilization. Progress on this longstanding issue within agreed regional and diplomatic frameworks can contribute to rebuilding confidence and implementation of Resolution 2773. Madam President, the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework remains an essential platform for addressing the root causes of instability in the Great Lakes region. We support its revitalization, stronger African ownership, and continued efforts by the African Union mediator and the Panel of Facilitators to promote coherence among the various peace initiatives. The illicit exploitation and trafficking of natural resources also remain structural drivers of instability. Strengthened regional cooperation, transparency, and traceability are essential to ensure that the region's natural wealth becomes a source of shared prosperity rather than conflict. Pakistan also continues to support MONUSCO playing a constructive role in ceasefire implementation. The regional role of the Special Envoy and MONUSCO's country-specific responsibilities should remain mutually reinforcing. Ultimately, the principal challenge is implementation. The frameworks and mechanisms for peace already exist. What is now required is sustained political will, verifiable action, and renewed efforts to rebuild trust among the countries and parties concerned. Pakistan reaffirms its strong support for the sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and remains committed to the promotion of lasting peace and stability in the Great Lakes region. I thank you.

I thank the representative of Pakistan for the statement. I now give the floor to the representative of China.

President, I thank Special Envoy Xia Huang for the briefing. China commends the efforts by the Special Envoy and his office to implement the Security Council's mandate. I also welcome the representative of Burundi to the meeting today. Recently, progress has been made in the Great Lakes peace process. However, a significant gap between diplomatic commitments and the situation on the ground still remains. The conflict in eastern DRC grinds on, and the Ebola outbreak has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis. The international community must redouble its efforts to help the region return to lasting peace. I will make four points. First, cease hostilities and urge all parties to fulfill effectively their obligations. Protracted hostilities will only worsen the plight of civilians and undermine diplomatic efforts. Security Council Resolution 2337 explicitly calls for a ceasefire on the ground. The parties concerned should implement it to the letter and refrain from actions that aggravate tensions. China has always supported the DRC's efforts to safeguard its sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity. We advocate that legitimate security concerns of countries in the region be resolved through dialogue and consultation. We hope the DRC and Rwanda will move towards the same goal and effectively implement Security Council resolutions and relevant commitments. The international community must urge M23 to cease hostilities and withdraw from occupied areas. Second, uphold African leadership and strengthen coordination among various initiatives. A lasting solution to the issues in the Great Lakes region cannot be achieved without the unity and the cooperation of regional countries, nor without regional initiatives playing a greater role. The international community should support the AU in establishing a robust platform to de-escalate tensions and promote political dialogue. There's a need to earnestly respect the AU's central role in the regional peace process. Recently, the AU proposed a roadmap to mediate the issue in the Eastern DRC and launched new initiatives, including the conducting of field visits, which deserves strong support from the international partners. The Security Council should continue to support Special Envoy Xia Huang in strengthening communication with all parties in the region and carrying out subtle diplomacy. At the same time, the Special Envoy's mandate should be updated and adjusted in line with the evolving situation to ensure effective fulfilment of the duties and provide greater assistance to the regional peace process. Third, scale up assistance and address the humanitarian crisis in the region. The conflict has not only led to the displacement of a large number of civilians and widespread food insecurity and hunger in the region, but also made it all the more difficult to contain the Ebola outbreak. The international community should coordinate humanitarian relief efforts with the epidemic prevention and control. We urge the parties to the conflict to ensure unimpeded humanitarian access and protect the safety of humanitarian and medical personnel. Since the outbreak of Ebola, China has delivered multiple batches of emergency cash and medical supplies to the DRC, Uganda, and the EU, and has dispatched three medical expert teams to the DRC. We call on international partners to continue increasing their financial, material, and technical contributions to help the region overcome the epidemic as soon as possible and restore normal life. Fourth, address the root causes of conflict and promote lasting stability through cooperation. The ongoing instability in the Great Lakes region is closely linked to historical grievances, ethnic conflicts, development deficits, and illegal mining. To tackle security challenges, the countries in the region must take a long-term perspective, uphold a common, comprehensive, cooperative, and sustainable security vision, adhere to good neighbor friendship, show mutual respect of sovereignty, strengthen cooperation for shared benefits, and achieve common development. The international community should support countries in the region to transforming their natural resources advantage into drivers of development, pursuing development path suited to their national conditions, strengthening regional economic and trade cooperation, and joining forces to combat illegal mining and smuggling of resources. The peace, security and cooperation framework for the DRC and the region remains an important guide in addressing the root causes of regional conflict. The international community should reinvigorate the framework's momentum. President, on October 13, President Xi Jinping of China put forward four principles on how to engage in the hotspot issues in a constructive way in Africa. and also a four-point on the Sino-African mineral cooperation. This provided very significant guidance to the international community in addressing issues related to that region. President, China shares a deep-rooted traditional friendship with the countries in the region. On the path towards development and revitalization, we support each other and seek cooperation to achieve common progress. In recent years, under the framework of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, We have continuously stepped up cooperation with the countries in the region in areas such as trade, economy, infrastructure, mineral resources and agriculture, helping them to build up their development capabilities. In June 2026, China and the UN organized a training program on capacity building in terms of controlling small and small weapons and light weapons for countries in the region, providing support to the regional efforts to curb illicit proliferation of such weapons. As a good friend to the countries in the region, China stands ready to continue working with all parties to make a greater contribution to achieving lasting peace and prosperity in the Great Lakes region. And I thank you, President.

I thank the representative of China for the statement. I now give the floor to the representative of the Russian Federation.

Madam President, we're grateful to the Special Envoy, Juan Xia, for his assessments. We welcome the participation of the Permanent Representative of Burundi in this meeting. Year in, year out, the situation in the Great Lakes region is being determined by developments regarding the security crisis in the east of the DRC. We regret that diplomatic measures being undertaken to resolve the situation are still insufficient. The gap between the obligations of the parties on paper and the actual state of affairs is patently obvious, even to observers not well-versed in these matters. The ceasefire remains an abstract concept, and the Congolese people continue to suffer from the consequences of the armed conflict. The humanitarian situation is already dire, but it is now being compounded by a particularly strong Ebola outbreak. However, there are some trends which give grounds for cautious optimism. In particular, we'd like to single out the launch, albeit a delayed one, of the expanded Joint Verification Mechanism plus under the auspices of the International Conference for the Great Lakes Region, with the assistance of MONUSCO. We hope that this will not be a one-off, that the mechanism will reach full capacity, thereby contributing to de-escalating the crisis. At the same time, we would like to emphasize how important it is for the Security Council to receive information about the mechanism in a timely fashion. It is the Security Council which takes decisions regarding the parameters for MONUSCO's participation in monitoring missions. And the Council can only do this if it has the necessary information in full at its disposal. We note the resolve of the DRC government to address the problems related to the FDLR group. We believe that voluntary disarmament, demobilization and the disbanding of this illegal armed formation, if this process is done properly, and comprehensively can help achieve the goal of neutralizing the FDLR and at the same time help intensify Rwanda's efforts to fulfill its commitments, well known to all. There is much demand for regional peace initiatives. We're grateful to Prime Minister for Gnassingbe of Togo and the group of AU mediators who are committed to addressing the issue of lowering the level of conflict. Meticulous and ongoing work by African diplomats is a key tool for addressing the root causes of the crisis in the eastern DRC and achieving a lasting settlement. We note the regional tour of the group of mediators The aim of the tour being to engage with all parties involved. We remain at their disposal so as to comprehensively support the work of the AU on the DRC dossier. Having said that, it's obvious that real progress will only be possible when Kigali and Kinshasa go down the path of unconditional implementation of the UN Security Council Resolution 2773, as well as mutual undertakings. Ongoing ferocious hostilities in the east of the DRC regrettably, is giving rise to doubts regarding the party's interest in halting the use of military methods and holding support to illegal armed formations. We're particularly concerned by intense use of UAVs, which speaks to a change in the military nature of this conflict. What's more is the instructors and operators of these UAVs include foreign mercenaries. According to media reports, they are also directly participating in hostilities on the contact line. This is a clear violation of the 1533 Security Council sanctions regime. We hope that the group of experts of the relevant sanctions committee will pay due attention to this aspect. Madam President, the conflict in the east of the DRC, much like any other military confrontation, will be settled sooner or later, and it will be settled around a negotiating table. Russia will continue to support the efforts of the Special Envoy of the SG, Juan Schia, to help countries in the region to overcome their differences. We'll do everything we can here at the Security Council so as to hasten this moment. I thank you.

I thank the representative of the Russian Federation for the statement, and I now give the floor to the representative of Colombia.

Thank you, Madam President. Colombia welcomes the brief of the Special Envoy, Juan Schia, and the representative of Burundi. We reaffirm our commitment and we encourage all parties to commit to the principles of the UN Charter and the commitments of the PSC framework. Colombia supports especially the coherence amongst the peace tracks under African leadership, the regional mandate of the special envoy in coordination, of course, with MONUSCO. We encourage very specially and believe that the next step is to work in the coordination of the different tracks of Washington-Doha, the mediation of the African Union, and naturally, the envoy's efforts. We continue, and we are especially concerned of the situation of internally displaced people for more than 6 million of persons, and naturally the humanitarian situation inside the country that in Democratic Republic of Congo, and the needs to support the efforts of the country with more than 26 million people exposed. Madame President.

Madam President, we can say that quite clearly without hesitation, with absolute clarity, in fact. Whilst considering the provisions of international law and the principles of sovereignty, Colombia supports the sovereignty of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. And moreover, we believe Resolution 2773 and calling into question the Congolese state is out of the question. We support the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Its sovereignty must never be called into question. Madam President, for Colombia, it's particularly important to highlight three priorities first strengthening coherence among the peace processes we welcome the gabarone road map and the regional mandate of the special Envoy and we are particularly interested in collecting information with regard to illicit economies, illicit mining of minerals, which helps to fuel violence. And we also would express our concern with regard to the illegal trafficking in minerals and mining of minerals illegally. And we support here the strengthening of the regional certification mechanism of the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region, and we encourage prompt adoption of the regional procedure for the disarmament and repatriation of foreign combatants. Thirdly, we reiterate our call on all parties to comply with their obligations under international humanitarian law, in particular the Geneva Conventions. to protect civilians and to allow humanitarian assistance to reach those in need rapidly, safely, and without obstruction. These people need the aid more than ever before, and we would call for the Refugee Convention of 1951 to be respected, as well as the Additional Protocol. of 1967, given the exponential increase in the number of refugees, more than 1.2 million refugees, and the need to ensure their access to humanitarian assistance, but also to avoid an increase in the illegal recruitment of migrants. Thank you very much.

I thank the representative of Colombia for the statement. I now give the floor to the representative of Panama.

Thank you, Madam President. I'd like to thank the Secretary-General's Special Envoy for the Great Lakes Region, Mr. Wang Xia, for his briefing and for his efforts to keep the channels of dialogue open. I recognize and welcome the participation of the representative of Burundi. The Secretary-General's report presents us with a troubling reality. Diplomatic efforts continue to fall short and do not provide the population with the security that they need. The ongoing hostilities and the failure to fulfill commitments threaten to erode the progress that has been achieved. Closing that gap must be what guides our actions. For Panama, peace requires full respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and of all States in the region. Legitimate security concerns must be addressed through dialogue, cooperation and international law. None can justify support for armed groups or the violation of borders. We are concerned by the consolidation of AFC M23 positions, with support from the Rwanda Defence Force, as documented by the Secretary-General. We also condemn the attacks carried out by the ADF, the FDLR and other armed groups against the civilian population. We urge an end to hostilities, the cessation of all external support to these groups, and compliance with obligations regarding the withdrawal of foreign forces. Madam President, the Washington and Doha processes, together with the mediation efforts of the African Union, have created opportunities that require sustained support and coherent direction. Panama supports African leadership and the work of the Special Envoy, in bringing these efforts together. Their convergence must result in an orderly implementation process with clearly defined responsibilities, established timelines, and effective mechanisms for resolving disputes. The initial missions of the expanded Joint Verification Mechanism Plus constitute an encouraging step. We must ensure that it has access, independence and sufficient resources. Confidence will be rebuilt through the verifiable implementation of agreed commitments, accompanied by rigorous monitoring by this Council. The humanitarian emergency demands the same determination. Displacement, hunger and the Ebola outbreak are deepening the vulnerability of communities that have endured years of violence. We call for safe and unhindered humanitarian access, protection for health personnel, and timely funding for assistance. We condemn sexual violence and grave violations against children, and we demand that those responsible be held accountable. A lasting solution. also requires dismantling the economies that fuel the conflict. The exploitation and illicit trade of minerals sustain armed networks and deprive populations of the benefits of their natural heritage. Strengthening traceability, due diligence, and judicial cooperation must be accompanied by legitimate economic opportunities for local communities. Panama's experience reaffirms our conviction that infrastructure projects, energy and trade projects, for example, can reinforce shared interests when their benefits reach the population and are supported by accountable institutions. The peace, security and cooperation framework provides an indispensable foundation for this purpose. Revitalizing it requires effective national and regional commitments. Madam President, The people of the Great Lakes region have the right to live without seeing each diplomatic advance placed at the mercy of a new offensive. Our responsibility is to help ensure that agreements withstand tensions, that institutions protect people, and that cooperation prevails over distrust. Panama calls upon the parties to honour their commitments, and on this Council, we call you to support their implementation with unity and resolve. Peace will become credible when it can be experienced every day in the communities of the region. Thank you very much. Thank you.

Representative of Panama, for the statement. I now give the floor to the representative of Latvia.

Thank you, Madame President. I wish to thank Special Envoy Huang Xia for his briefing and his continued efforts to support peace initiatives and regional cooperation in the Great Lakes region. Madam President, I will make three points. First, the conflict in the eastern DRC remains the flashpoint of the Great Lakes region. Latvia reaffirms its support to the ongoing peace efforts. We commend the progress achieved so far in the Washington and Doha processes. Yet, the security and humanitarian situation on the ground still has to measurably improve. We urge all parties to sustain engagement and implement their commitments under Council Resolution 2773. And we reiterate the call on Rwanda to cease its support for the M23 and withdraw its troops from the DRC. and for the FDLR to be neutralized. The conclusion of the protocol on the disarmament, demobilization and containment of the FDLR is a notable step, and we affirm the Council's call for its timely implementation. And Latvia reiterates its firm commitment to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Second, Durable peace in the Great Lakes region cannot be envisaged without African ownership and leadership. We support the African Union-led mediation efforts in the eastern DRC. The regional consultations held last week by the delegation of the AU panel of facilitators are a significant development, and we hope that continued AU mediation will help rebuild trust and open space for dialogue. The International Conference on the Great Lakes Region also has an important role in the region's peaceful and sustainable development, including through its support to the EJVM plus and its work on natural resource management. It is important to foster coordination and complementarity among the different African-led and international efforts. Equally important is to emphasize implementation of agreements and commitments by the countries of the region. Finally, Latvia echoes the call for full, equal and meaningful participation of women in peace efforts. Women and girls are among those most affected by the conflict in Eastern DRC. Therefore, women's roles in conflict resolution are crucial for sustainable peace that protects survivors and fosters accountability. They keep communities together, mediate, monitor and document abuses. and care for the vulnerable and sick, including currently during the Ebola outbreak. And their resilience should not be taken for granted. Their leadership and efforts in communities must be supported and encouraged. Peace without women's participation risks being short-lived. It will lack societal resilience needed to withstand a relapse into conflict. And we commend the Special Envoy for the continued advocacy for inclusive peace efforts. To conclude, Madam President, the momentum for peace shall not be wasted. It must be actively maintained through political will, rebuilding of trust, and upholding of commitments, including the fundamental commitments of the peace, security, and cooperation framework for the DRC and the region. And that we will continue to support efforts to bring peace to the DRC and the Great Lakes region. I thank you.

I thank the representative of Latvia for the statement. I now give the floor to the representative of Bahrain.

Thank you, Madam President. At the outset, I would like to thank Mr. Juan Xia, Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for the Great Lakes Region. Thank you for your briefing. I would also like to express our gratitude of the Kingdom of Bahrain Our gratitude to the Office of the Special Envoy and its efforts for peace and stability in the region. We welcome the participation of a representative of the Republic of Burundi in today's meeting. Madam President, the Kingdom of Bahrain welcomes the diplomatic momentum, sustained diplomatic momentum, thanks to the Washington and Doha processes, as well as the AU-led mediation and that of regional partners. We underscore the importance of complementarity between these various processes. We welcome the launch of the first missions of the EJVM+ in Minimboe and Masisi. This is an important step towards the strengthening of monitoring and verification of the ceasefire, with a view to promote a restoration of trust and support for a lasting ceasefire. We underscore the importance of comprehensive implementation of Resolution 2773 and respect by all parties of the commitments they've undertaken. Furthermore, we share the Secretary-General's concern regarding the ongoing gap between diplomatic progress on the one hand and the reality on the ground on the other. We call on all parties to put an end to hostilities, to protect civilians, and to fulfill their obligations in full, as well as to respect relevant Security Council resolutions. Moreover, we'd like to express our deep disquiet given the ongoing attacks being waged by the Allied Democratic Forces, the ADF, Terrorism and violent extremism is something we condemn in all of their forms. We support international and regional cooperation with a view to combating these phenomena and halting their financing sources. Turning now to the Ebola epidemic, this is a cause for serious concern as well. The latest WHO data states that there have been over 7,000 cases and over 3,000 deaths. This underscores the need to ensure safe and unfettered access for humanitarian and medical teams. The Kingdom of Bahrain wishes to underscore that the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework is a key regional instrument which can help to address the root causes of the conflict and to bolster trust between states in the region. We welcome the strengthening of regional cooperation and are following with a keen interest the adoption of the unified procedure on demobilization, disarmament, repatriation and reintegration of foreign combatants. We underscore the importance of combating the illicit exploitation of natural resources and of promoting dialogue. as well as the need to exercise restraint to avoid any regional escalation. By way of conclusion, Madam President, the Kingdom of Bahrain reiterates its support to peace and security and stability in the Great Lakes region. We highlight respect for the sovereignty of states in the region, their unity, their territorial integrity, and the principles of good friendly relations. I thank you.

I thank the representative of Bahrain for the statement. I shall now make a statement in my capacity as the representative of Greece. I thank Special Envoy Juan Schia for his insightful briefing. I would also welcome the participation of the representative of Burundi in today's meeting. At the outset, let me underline that despite sustained international and regional efforts and important diplomatic progress, the armed conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo persists, undermining regional stability. The momentum generated by ongoing peace efforts must be preserved. All parties must de-escalate immediately, honor their commitments, and accelerate the implementation. I will make three points. First, Resolutions 2773 and 2808 must be implemented immediately, fully, and unconditionally. AFM23 must cease hostilities without delay, fully reverse the establishment of illegitimate parallel structures, and withdraw from all areas under its control. State authority must be restored throughout the DRC. Greece's support for the independence, sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of the DRC and of all the states in the Great Lakes region is unwavering. The effective neutralization of the FDLR is urgent, and we support the efforts of DRC to this end, in line with the commitments made. Under the Washington Accords, the Rwanda Defense Forces must cease its support for ADFC/M23 and withdraw unconditionally from DRC territory. We commend all mediation efforts of the United States and Qatar, and in particular those led by the African Union, notably the initiatives of Togo and Angola aimed at securing a ceasefire and advancing lasting peace, stability and reconciliation in eastern DRC and the Great Lakes region. Second, amid the ongoing Ebola outbreak in eastern DRC, widespread food insecurity and natural disasters across the region, we remain deeply concerned by the severe and complex humanitarian situation, the continuing violence in the east, the grave human rights violations, abuses against women and children and a large number of internally displaced persons. We are particularly alarmed by the ADF's continued attacks, notably in Ituri, North Kivu, which have caused further suffering among civilians and triggered new displacement. All parties must respect international humanitarian law, ensure safe, rapid, and unimpeded humanitarian access, and facilitate relief flights. We commend MONUSCO for its continued work to protect civilians and support efforts towards a permanent ceasefire, notably following the completion of the first two missions of the expanded Joint Verification Mechanism Plus in eastern DRC. Third, we believe that the revitalization of the peace, security, and cooperation framework is of critical importance. As the special envoy has stressed on many occasions, all signatories must uphold sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states in the Great Lakes region and refrain from aiding, supporting, or tolerating illegal armed groups. We commend the Special Envoy for his recent good offices missions to several countries in the region, as well as for promoting the WPS and YPS agendas and including the full, effective, and meaningful participation of women and youth in peace efforts. reiterate that the lasting stability and sustainable transparent governance of natural resources in the Great Lakes region, equitable benefit sharing mechanism, and a responsible commitment to sustainable development practices, especially in the mining sector, are necessary. The illicit exploitation and trafficking of natural resources must also be addressed. Strong regional cooperation, value chain integration, and enhanced capacity building in relation to the region's mineral wealth can contribute to prosperity, peace, and security. In conclusion, Greece stands ready to support any further engagement by this council as needed to advance lasting peace, stability, and development in the Great Lakes region. I resume my functions as President of the Council. I now give the floor to the representative of Burundi.

Madam President, First of all, I would like to thank the Greek presidency of the Security Council for having included on the agenda the consideration of the Secretary-General's report. on the implementation of the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework for the DRC and the Great Lakes region. This initiative demonstrates the Council's continued attention to the situation in our region and to the search for lasting peace in the Great Lakes region. My delegation would also like to thank the Secretary-General for his report, which provides a useful account of developments during the reporting period and highlights the regional dimension of the crisis in the eastern DRC. We also commend the work carried out by the Secretary-General's Special Envoy for the Great Lakes Region and his office in support of de-escalation, dialogue, coordination among the various peace initiatives, and the revitalization of the PSC framework. in the Great Lakes region. We particularly appreciate his good offices with the states of the region and his commitment to strengthening coherence between African and international efforts. Burundi shares the assessment that the security situation in eastern DRC remains troubling, despite the progress achieved on the diplomatic front. The persistence of violence, the activities of armed groups, massive population displacement and the deterioration of the humanitarian situation demonstrate that commitments made in the various negotiation processes must now be translated into concrete measures on the ground. We welcome the various processes and we believe that complementarity between the Washington and Doha processes and the mediation conducted under the auspices of the African Union is imperative in this regard. These initiatives must reinforce one another and be guided by a common objective, namely ending hostilities, protecting civilian populations and addressing the root causes of instability. For Burundi, it is also essential to not lose sight of the truly regional dimension of this crisis. Security dynamics in eastern DRC have direct repercussions on neighboring countries through, inter alia, the movements of armed groups, cross-border trafficking, population displacement, and persistent mistrust among certain states in the region. Peace in the DRC can therefore only be sustainable if it's accompanied by greater trust among the states of the Great Lakes region, enhanced security cooperation, and a collective political will to resolve differences through dialogue. In this regard, Burundi welcomes the fact that the Secretary-General's report recognizes our country's efforts in promoting dialogue and African solutions to the Congolese crisis. We note in particular the commitment of His Excellency Mr. Evariste Ndayishimiye, President of the Republic of Burundi and, during the period under review, Chairperson of the African Union, who received in Bujumbura on 6 July 2026 a delegation of political and religious actors from the DRC and emphasized the importance of constructive dialogue. This contribution reflects Burundi's longstanding conviction that the states of the region bear a particular responsibility in seeking durable solutions to the crises affecting our common region. Burundi intends to continue placing its experience, good offices, and dialogue capabilities at the service of African peace efforts in close coordination with the African Union, regional mechanisms, and the United Nations. Madam President, It is in this spirit that my delegation wishes to share the following messages on behalf First, Burundi reaffirms its commitment to the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework, which remains, in our view, an essential instrument for addressing the root causes of conflicts in the region. We welcome ongoing efforts toward its revitalization and encourage all signatory states to fully honor their commitments. The PSC framework must remain a privileged space for dialogue, confidence building, and cooperation among the countries of the region with the support of the African Union and the United Nations. Secondly, Burundi remains deeply concerned by the presence and the activities of armed groups in eastern DRC, particularly those that pose a direct or indirect threat to the security of neighbouring States. We are especially attentive to the presence and activities of Red Tabara in South Kivu, as noted in the Secretary-General's report. The fight against armed groups must be conducted in accordance with international law and within the framework of strengthened regional cooperation. It is essential to improve information sharing, verification mechanisms, and border security in order to prevent armed groups from exploiting cross-border spaces and destabilizing states in the region. Thirdly, Burundi attaches particular importance to strengthening its bilateral cooperation with the DRC. We welcome the report's reference to the agreement reached in June between the two countries to enhance military cooperation. This cooperation should contribute to securing their common border, combating armed groups and gradually restoring stability in conflict-affected areas. Burundi reaffirms its readiness to work with the DRC and with other regional partners in a spirit of responsibility, solidarity, and mutual respect. Fourthly, Burundi would like to emphasize the importance of strengthening trust among the states of the region. The Secretary-General's report notes the persistence of tensions between Burundi and Rwanda, as well as the closure of their common border since January 2024. Burundi remains convinced that issues dividing the states of the region must be addressed through dialogue, diplomacy and appropriate regional mechanisms. We support any initiative that may contribute to rebuilding trust, reducing tensions and, ultimately, normalizing relations among neighboring countries. We reaffirm that the security of one state cannot be sustainably ensured at the expense of that of its neighbours, and that regional stability is founded on collective security. Fifth, my government attaches particular importance to the humanitarian dimension of the crisis. Rwanda has continued to fulfill its responsibilities by receiving refugees from the DRC, whilst also facilitating, where conditions permit, their voluntary return. We call upon the international community to strengthen its support for countries hosting these populations, and to ensure that returns are genuinely voluntary, safe, dignified and sustainable. A lasting solution to the crisis in the Great Lakes region Must and DRC must place affected populations at the center of collective action and take into account the social and economic burdens borne by host countries. Sixth, Burundi supports the strengthening of regional ceasefire verification and monitoring mechanisms. The effective implementation of the expanded Joint Verification Mechanism Plus constitutes an important step toward building confidence among the parties and preventing misunderstandings that could lead to renewed escalation. However, these mechanisms must be provided with the necessary resources, they must benefit from the full cooperation of the parties, and preserve their credibility, impartiality, and effectiveness. Commitments made in the various peace processes must be accompanied by monitoring and verification mechanisms enabling their implementation to be measured specifically. Seventh, Burundi reaffirms the need to address the structural causes of conflict, combating the illicit exploitation and trade of natural resources, controlling arms flows, carrying out disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration of combatants, as well as resolving disputes related to land and community tensions, must form an integral part of any regional peace strategy. In this regard, we support efforts aimed at strengthening the ICGLR regional certification mechanism, particularly in the areas of traceability, transparency, and responsible governance of natural resources, combating conflict economies should help deprive armed groups of the resources that sustain their capacity to cause harm and promote regional economic integration that benefits populations. Eighth, Burundi reaffirms its support for an African approach to conflict prevention and resolution. We welcome the efforts of the African Union, the ICGLR, SADC, the East African Community and other regional mechanisms engaged in seeking solutions to the crisis. We believe that international support should reinforce African initiatives rather than replace them. The multiplication of processes must not lead to competition among them. On the contrary, the Washington Process, the Doha Process, African Union mediation and regional mechanisms must be complementary, coherent and focused on the effective implementation of commitments undertaken. Madam President, the situation in the Great Lakes requires the international community to remain engaged while recognizing and providing greater support to the efforts undertaken by these states and organizations of the region. Burundi remains convinced that peace in our region can only be sustainably consolidated through full regional ownership founded on dialogue, trust, cooperation, and respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states. In this regard, Burundi intends to continue to fully assume its responsibility as an actor for peace and stability in the Great Lakes region. Drawing on its commitment within the African Union, its participation in regional mechanisms and its experience in dialogue processes, our country remains available to contribute whenever that may be useful to efforts aimed at conflict prevention, mediation, confidence building, and peace building. The initiatives undertaken by His Excellency, President of Burundi, in support of dialogue on the Congolese crisis illustrates this desire to place Burundi's good offices at the service of regional peace. Burundi will continue to support efforts to bring positions closer together, prevent escalation, and create conditions for inclusive and lasting dialogue. In this spirit, we call upon the Security Council to continue supporting efforts led by the African Union to support the revitalization of the PSC framework and to strengthen the capacities of regional mechanisms for prevention, verification, and the peaceful settlement of disputes. We also encourage the Council to continue supporting the efforts of the Secretary-General's Special Envoy and his office, whose role remains essential in promoting coherence among initiatives and keeping channels of dialogue open. Burundi reaffirms, for its part, its readiness to work with all states of the region the African Union, sub-regional organizations, and the United Nations to advance peace and stability in the Great Lakes region. Our country will continue to favor dialogue over confrontation, cooperation over mistrust, and African solutions to African crises. We are convinced that by combining the political will of the states of the region with predictable, coordinated international support that respects African ownership, the commitments made in the various peace processes can gradually be translated into concrete results for the populations. It is in this spirit that Burundi will continue to assume its share of responsibility in building a peaceful, stable, integrated, and development-oriented Great Lakes region. I thank you.

Thank you, representative of Burundi, for the statement. There are no names inscribed on the list of speakers. I now invite council members to informal consultations to continue our discussion on the subject. The meeting is adjourned.