Statement by H.E. Ambassador ISHIKANE Kimihiro, Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations, at the Security Council Briefing on the Situation in the DRC

I would like to express my gratitude to SRSG Keita for her briefing, and I also welcome the participation of representatives from the DRC, Rwanda, and Burundi.　
 
Realizing sustainable peace and stability in the eastern part of the DRC is essential for prosperity in the Great Lakes region and indeed in the entire African continent. The recent Security Council visit to the DRC was an opportunity to reaffirm that conviction. Extensive meetings and the visit to Goma helped us understand the situation on the ground. Continued brutal human rights violations and abuses by numerous armed groups, the humanitarian crises they create, and heightened regional tensions are our shared concern. MONUSCO has a vital role in alleviating people’s suffering and facilitating the stabilization process, and Japan commends its continued dedication in volatile condition.
 
To further our endeavor for sustainable peace in the region, I would like to highlight the following points relating to MONUSCO’s strategic priorities today. 
 
First and foremost, a cessation of hostilities and of any further advances by the M23, as well as its withdrawal from all occupied areas, are a prerequisite for laying the ground for the stabilization of this region. All external parties must immediately cease their support to M23. Japan welcomes ongoing regional initiatives, such as the Nairobi Process led by the East African Community (EAC) as well as the Luanda Process. The series of recent agreements require sincere implementation by all stakeholders. MONUSCO and EAC regional forces should closely coordinate and continue to monitor the implementation of these agreements.
 
Second, strengthening the rule of law is crucial. Listening to horrific stories in Goma directly from those IDPs fleeing from human rights violations and abuses was simply heartbreaking. The organized refugee and IDP camp has long since exceeded capacity, yet vulnerable people continue to arrive. They should be able to settle in new camps under the Government’s auspices.
 
Regardless of the future course of MONUSCO, national security forces bear the primary responsibility for protecting civilians and ensuring social order. Security sector reform must proceed much more swiftly under national ownership while MONUSCO maintains its substantial presence on the ground.
 
Japan has been contributing to institution building for more than 20 years in that sector. Our experts from the Japan International Cooperation Agency are working side by side with national police officers at their headquarters in Kinshasa. Our goal is to establish and expand credible community police systems by assisting with technical training, infrastructure development, and trust building with local people.
 
Finally, solely military measures cannot break the cycle of violence. Tackling illegal exploitation of the country’s rich natural resources is another key challenge. We should further encourage regional as well as international cooperation to promote legitimate trade and tighten border controls to diminish the black market.
 
The facilitation of free and fair elections is also a vital step towards sustainable peace. Japan encourages the DRC authorities to continue their efforts on the ongoing electoral process, and MONUSCO to provide necessary supports.
 
Japan remains committed to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the DRC, and we will continue working together with MONUSCO and all the countries in the region to achieve sustainable peace and stability.
 
I thank you.