Pakistan Advocates Diplomatic Resolution for DRC Conflict at UN

Pakistan has called for the full implementation of a UN Security Council resolution aimed at withdrawing Rwadan-backed M23 rebels from the DRC, asserting that military solutions are insufficient for conflict resolution. Ambassador Ahmad urged all parties to engage in diplomatic negotiations and highlighted severe humanitarian crises resulting from the violence. The situation remains perilous, with armed groups seizing territory and committing human rights violations, while MONUSCO continues facing operational restrictions.

In a recent discussion at the United Nations, Pakistan emphasized the need for the implementation of the UN Security Council’s resolution urging the withdrawal of Rwadan-backed M23 rebels from Goma and other regions in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad declared that a military solution is not feasible for resolving the ongoing conflict and called for diplomatic engagements between the DRC and Rwanda to foster peace.

Ambassador Ahmad highlighted that the actions of the M23, supported externally, have severely affected the lives of civilians in Eastern DRC, escalating humanitarian crises and increasing the risk of a broader conflict in the Great Lakes region. He urged all parties, particularly the M23, to engage sincerely with the facilitators of peace negotiations, currently led by Angolan President Joao Lourenco and former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta, as a vital step toward achieving a lasting resolution.

Further, he commended the efforts of MONUSCO peacekeepers, who are currently confined to 60% of the territory due to restrictions imposed by M23. It was indicated that these limitations must be lifted to allow peacekeepers to operate effectively, and those responsible for obstructing their operations should be held accountable. Additionally, the mission requires strengthening and equipping to fulfill its obligations, aligning with the directives from the DRC government.

The head of MONUSCO, Bintou Keita, reported to the Security Council about the expansion of armed groups associated with the M23 in North and South Kivu, indicating their intention to gain further territory. This violence has led to the establishment of parallel administrations, significantly worsening the humanitarian situation as armed groups make major territorial gains amidst increasing violence.

Ms. Keita pointed out a concerning rise in human rights abuses, including forcible recruitments and summary executions, profoundly affecting women and children. Reports from the Danish Refugee Council indicated the disturbing trend of children engaging in survival sex and highlighted numerous violations against minors.

The escalating security situation has prompted substantial displacements, particularly in Ituri province where conflicts between armed groups have intensified, directly impacting civilians. Nonetheless, humanitarian access remains impeded due to ongoing violence, roadblocks, and significant funding challenges affecting relief efforts in the DRC.

In the face of these challenges, MONUSCO has made strides in fulfilling its mandate through expanded patrols and facilitating disarmament negotiations, resulting in the surrender of numerous armed fighters. Yet, movement restrictions imposed by the M23 continue to hinder operations, necessitating urgent international attention and support for the DRC’s restoration of peace.

In summary, Pakistan’s appeal to the United Nations reinforces the necessity for a diplomatic approach towards resolving the DRC conflict, emphasizing the ineffectiveness of military solutions. The dire humanitarian and human rights situation in the region underscores the importance of collaborative international efforts, the need for lifting restrictions on peacekeepers, and ensuring the implementation of relevant UN resolutions to establish a sustainable peace framework. MONUSCO’s ongoing struggles amidst escalating violence further highlight the urgent requirement for global commitment in stabilizing the DRC.

Original Source: tribune.com.pk