UNSC Briefing and Consultations on United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO)

[Monday, 6 December 2021; 1000 hrs (EDT)/ 1930 hrs (IST)]

INDIA STATEMENT

By

Ambassador R. Ravindra

Deputy Permanent Representative

Thank you, M. President,

At the outset, allow me to thank SRSG Ms. Bintou Keita for her briefing on the mandate implementation of MONUSCO and the latest developments in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). I also thank Chair of the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 1533 (2004) concerning the DRC for his report. I also thank Ms. Kabla for her insights. I  welcome the presence of the Representative of the DRC in today’s meeting.

2. The developments in the last three months have again demonstrated the challenges in the DRC, particularly in the eastern provinces. There has been increase in the activities of armed groups, mainly the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) which has gained in strength in the recent months and has committed terror attacks targeting civilians not just within DRC but beyond. We condemn these terror attacks and express condolences to the families of those who were killed. The expanding terror network in Africa is a matter of serious concern. In this regard, the joint operations against ADF in the eastern DRC is a welcome development. We also note that measures taken by the DRC government to address the security situation in the eastern DRC has received broad support of all stakeholders.

3. While military action against armed groups is important and needs to be pursued relentlessly, progress in security sector reforms and implementation of the Programme for Disarmament, Demobilization, Reintegration and Community Stabilization (P-DDRCS) cannot be ignored. We continue to encourage MONUSCO’s support to the government in both these processes. The formation of the two thematic working groups – one on DDR and one on community reintegration, recovery and stabilization – and identification of provincial coordination teams in Ituri, North Kivu and South Kivu are steps in right direction. There is also a need for greater efforts to minimise the inter-communal conflicts.

4. There has been progress with the National Assembly’s endorsement of members of the National Election Commission (CENI). We are hopeful that the differences expressed by certain stakeholders will be resolved peacefully and through dialogue. The role of CENI towards consolidating the gains made so far  remains crucial and will aid in cementing the roots of democracy through the elections of 2023. We hope that ongoing positive momentum is further encouraged and maintained as the upcoming elections are debated and discussed in the country.

Mr. President,

5. As we continue to discuss the upcoming renewal of MONUSCO mandate, we acknowledge the efforts made so far towards a steady transition and the benchmarks agreed between MONUSCO and the DRC authorities. We also emphasize that the assessment of progress on these benchmarks should be realistic. The situation on the ground should guide the eventual drawdown, while ensuring that gains made in the violence-prone provinces are established firmly to avoid any reversal. Strengthening of state authority, security organs and justice institutions remain paramount. The transition and eventual exit of MONUSCO must be gradual, responsible, and orderly.

6. The stabilization of conflict affected provinces will also depend on curbing illegal exploitation of mineral resources. Here, we would like to emphasize on the convergence of the Great Lakes strategy and efforts by the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR) under the overall umbrella of the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework for the DRC and the region.

7. Regarding performance assessment of the mission, we reiterate the importance of assessing all components equally and impartially given their inter-linkages. Similarly, we also call for the implementation of resolution 2589, especially  reporting requirement reflected in OP4 (i) and (ii) concerning crimes against peacekeepers.

8. In conclusion, Mr. President, the challenges faced by the DRC are not insurmountable. The faith and confidence of people of the DRC in democratic institutions to address the security and developmental challenges is reassuring. The DRC leadership has shown resolve to address these challenges. The support of the international community including the United Nations is extremely important in the coming days. On its part, India will continue to support and assist DRC on the path towards lasting peace, stability, and prosperity. I thank you Mr. President.

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