STORY
The United Kingdom has urged all parties involved in the conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to agree to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, expressing deep concern over the ongoing violence and humanitarian crisis in the region. Speaking at the United Nations Security Council, Ambassador James Kariuki, the UK’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, highlighted the lack of progress in implementing Resolution 2773, which was unanimously adopted nearly two months ago. He acknowledged the withdrawal of M23 and Rwandan Defence Forces from Walikale as a positive development but emphasised that significant challenges remain.
“We reiterate this Council’s call for the M23 to cease hostilities and withdraw from all controlled areas, and for the Rwandan Defence Forces to cease support for the M23 and withdraw from Congolese territory,” said Kariuki.
The UK welcomed the appointment of President Faure Gnassingbé of Togo as the African Union’s mediator for the peace process in eastern DRC. Kariuki expressed hope that this would enhance coordination between regional and international efforts to achieve lasting peace. He also urged all parties to engage with the mediator’s efforts and to implement the East African Community-Southern African Development Community (EAC-SADC) roadmap for sustainable peace and security.
Addressing the humanitarian situation, Kariuki noted that over one million people have been displaced since the beginning of the year due to the conflict. He called on all parties to respect international humanitarian and human rights law and to allow safe and unimpeded passage of humanitarian assistance by lake, road, and through the reopening of key airports, including Goma and Kavumu. The UK also supports enhanced coordination among the UN and donors to ensure aid reaches those most in need.