During a UN Security Council meeting on the situation in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rwanda's representative to the UN, Martin K. Ngoga, reaffirmed his country's commitment to ongoing diplomatic processes. He emphasized the need for effective implementation of agreements concluded between Kigali and Kinshasa. Ngoga noted that the security crisis in eastern DR Congo has been on the Security Council's agenda for nearly thirty years.
Ngoga highlighted that since 1999, the UN has spent over $30 billion on peacekeeping missions in the region, including MONUC and MONUSCO, without fully resolving the conflict's root causes. He praised diplomatic efforts led by the US, Qatar, and the African Union, aimed at finding a lasting solution to the crisis. According to Ngoga, Rwanda remains committed to agreements made in Washington and their good-faith implementation.
The Rwandan representative mentioned that his country continues to participate in joint security coordination mechanisms, particularly those focused on neutralizing the FDLR and lifting defensive measures. He stated that Rwanda has taken steps to remove its defensive measures and proposed a tripartite verification mechanism involving Rwanda, DR Congo, and the US as a mediator. Ngoga stressed the importance of independent verification of commitments.
Ngoga emphasized that the neutralization of the FDLR, a Rwandan armed group operating in DR Congo, is a central issue in the security agreements. He cited the latest UN Secretary-General's report, which confirms the group's active presence in several areas of eastern DR Congo. Ngoga noted that while the Washington and Doha processes offer an opportunity for lasting change, the signing of agreements is not enough to bring peace.
The representative of Rwanda highlighted a significant gap in the implementation of commitments made under the peace process. He stressed the importance of translating commitments into concrete actions, maintaining dialogue between Rwanda and DR Congo, and ensuring impartial monitoring of implementation. Ngoga reaffirmed Rwanda's respect for its commitments and willingness to take necessary measures for verification.
Ngoga called on other parties to act similarly, stating that lasting peace in the region can only be achieved through effective implementation of agreements, transparent execution, continuous dialogue, and addressing security concerns of all communities. He concluded that Rwanda remains committed to a lasting peace based on application, verification, dialogue, and legitimate security for all regional communities.
The situation in eastern DR Congo remains a pressing concern, with the Security Council seeking ways to transform diplomatic advances into concrete results for peace. The meeting reflects ongoing efforts to address the complex crisis, which has been a priority for the international community for decades.
Key points
- Rwanda's UN representative pushes for verification of peace agreements.
- Effective implementation of agreements is crucial for lasting peace.
- Neutralization of FDLR is a central issue in security agreements.
