Statement by Deputy Political Coordinator Thomas Phipps
at the UN Security Council meeting on DRC.
Thank you, President, let me begin by thanking SRSG Keita for her
comprehensive briefing today and for the ongoing and important
work of MONUSCO and the bravery and commitment of its
peacekeepers. I’d like to make four points today regarding
the situation in DRC.
First, let me express the United Kingdom’s deep concern at the
worsening violence in eastern DRC. We condemn in the strongest
terms the UN-sanctioned M23 armed group’s continued advance. We
call on external actors to end their support for violent armed
groups in DRC, including M23. We encourage all parties to use
their influence over the armed groups in eastern DRC to
de-escalate tensions and to deliver a cessation of hostilities.
Second, let me join SRSG Keita in emphasising the
importance of diplomatic dialogue, including through the Luanda
and Nairobi peace processes. Its vital that parties meaningfully
engage with these and take steps to de-escalate tensions,
and respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the DRC.
Third, we note that UN peacekeepers are facing an increasingly
dangerous environment. We urge parties to respect the Mission’s
freedom of movement and we reiterate our condemnation of the
recent attack on a MONUSCO helicopter in early February. Any
attacks on civilians, MONUSCO peacekeepers, UN offices and
diplomats are unacceptable. We support efforts to counter mis-
and disinformation, which is detrimental to our collective
efforts to support peace and reach a diplomatic solution.
Finally, I want to express the United Kingdom’s deep concern at
the worsening humanitarian crisis in eastern DRC. Violence will
just lead to further violence and pose a risk to regional
security and stability. We urge all combatants, including
regional forces, to respect international humanitarian law and to
take active measures to reduce risks to civilians.
Dialogue is key and we urge all parties to come back to the
table.
