コンゴ（民）情勢に関する安保理会合における志野大使ステートメント

I would like to express my gratitude to SRSG Keita for her briefing. I welcome the participation of the representatives from the DRC as well as Rwanda. 　
 
The renewed offensives by M23 in North Kivu have been arousing grave concern for all of us. Increased hostilities and violence are having horrifying impacts on people’s lives, causing a massive flow of IDPs and threatening human security. M23 and all other armed groups in the region must immediately cease hostilities and lay down their arms.
 
Reports of the continued flow of a large amount of sophisticated weaponry into the battlespace is highly disturbing. I reiterate that support of any kind to armed groups only exacerbates insecurity and further heightens regional tensions, and must be stopped now. It is of the utmost importance to preserve the sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of the DRC.
 
We have to always bear in mind the primacy of a political solution through inclusive dialogues in order to achieve a sustainable peace. All regional initiatives need to be promoted in line with political efforts. The peace support operations by SAMIDRC and other national forces should be well-coordinated with each other and with MONUSCO activities under a common goal, stability of the region. We cannot allow any further escalation of regional tensions, let alone military confrontation among the neighboring states.
 
Madam President,
 
It is regrettable to see continued disinformation and misinformation against MONUSCO, alienating local people and endangering the safety of peacekeepers. The impact is far-reaching, and a part of it was recently seen in Kinshasa in the form of violent protests. Those who deliberately spread such inaccurate information and worsen community divide must be held accountable by state authorities. We welcome the increased strategic communication efforts by MONUSCO, and these should be backed up by local governments.  
 
To conclude, Japan reaffirms its commitment to continue working together with MONUSCO and all partners for sustainable peace and stability in the region.
 
I thank you.