DRC : "The Security Council must be able to sanction those responsible for the instability" [fr]

Mr. President,

France welcomes the adoption of the resolution renewing the sanctions regime and the mandate of the panel of experts on the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The Security Council met yesterday to discuss the situation in the country, which continues to deteriorate. Armed groups continue to attack civilians, security forces and MONUSCO. Violations of human rights and international humanitarian law, attacks on humanitarian workers and the looting of natural resources continue.

The Security Council must be able to sanction those responsible for the instability in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo. The sanctions regime will now include a new designation criterion to combat the increasing use of improvised explosive devices.

In adopting this resolution, our Council welcomes the diplomatic efforts of the States of the region and the conclaves held in Nairobi. It notes the commitments made there to contribute to reconciliation, stabilization and the preservation of peace.

France has heard the requests of the Democratic Republic of Congo concerning the notification procedure for supplies of military equipment and assistance. This is why, in order to support the capacity building and reform of the Congolese armed forces, this resolution significantly eases this procedure. It does not call into question the arms embargo on armed groups active in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

France regrets that this step forward, which is admittedly partial but reflects the balance of positions in the Security Council, was not unanimously supported. We hope that the measures remaining in force can evolve in the future in line with national efforts to combat arms trafficking and the spread of arms.

I thank you.