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

 

Thank you, Madam President.
 
I would like to express my gratitude to SRSG Keita for the briefing and for her determined leadership in MONUSCO. I also thank Ms. Mubalama for her briefing. I welcome the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the DRC and the Representatives of Rwanda and Angora today.
 
Japan welcomes the ongoing diplomatic effort by the DRC and Rwanda to advance the peace process. Significant steps have recently been taken towards putting an end to the conflict that has plagued the local population for decades. Japan commends Angola’s mediation efforts, particularly towards the development of a concept of operation for the harmonized plans on the neutralization of the FDLR and the disengagement of forces and the operationalization of the Enhanced Ad-Hoc Verification Mechanism to monitor the ceasefire. We also appreciate MONUSCO’s support for operationalizing the Mechanism.

Madam President,
 
While these diplomatic efforts are underway, the humanitarian situation in eastern DRC remains dire. Japan condemns the actions of all armed groups that threaten the civilian population. Japan calls on them to lay down their arms and participate in the Disarmament, Demobilization, Community Recovery and Stabilization Programme. We also demand that all States refrain from providing any support to armed groups including M23.
 
Japan calls on each government in the region to control the flow of small arms and light weapons (SALW) in a responsible manner given their significant security and humanitarian impact. On this note, Japan welcomes the holding of a regional forum on SALW in Goma from 8 to 10 October.
 
In this context, MONUSCO’s protection of civilians (POC) mandate remains key. The deployment of SAMIDRC is also appreciated as it helps create an environment conducive to the implementation of ongoing regional peace efforts. We are encouraged by the strengthened coordination between MONUSCO and SAMIDRC in line with resolution 2746 (2024). We also commend the Congolese government’s efforts towards the implementation of the provincial roadmap for the transition in South Kivu. Close alignment between MONUSCO, the UN Country Team, the government and key regional and international partners is essential to bringing lasting peace and stability.
 
Madam President,
 
The importance of protection of civilians cannot be emphasized enough in the context of the conflict in the DRC. Japan underscores that the primary responsibility for this lies with the Congolese National Police. Through our ODA implementation agency, JICA, Japan has supported the institutionalization of community policing and police training in Kinshasa, and extended this experience to Tanganyika Province, where 120 officers are currently undergoing training provided through IOM in collaboration with the Peacebuilding Fund. This support will contribute to strengthening the rule of law and preventing recurrence of conflict.
 
Madam President,
 
Japan recognizes the important role of MONUSCO in bringing peace and stability to the DRC. We will constructively join the discussion on the extension of the Mission’s mandate until our current Security Council term ends at the end of the year. Japan will continue to support peacebuilding efforts in the DRC in order to ensure human security and that each individual will have opportunities and choices to fulfil his or her potential. 
 
I thank you, Madam President.