Pakistan’s envoy to the United Nations called for the implementation of UNSC resolution regarding the withdrawal of Rwadan-backed M23 rebels from the DRC. Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad emphasized the necessity of diplomatic talks for peace and acknowledged the humanitarian crisis worsening due to the conflict. MONUSCO peacekeepers are facing challenges amidst the turmoil, necessitating improved collaboration with the DRC government and accountability measures against obstructive actions.
On Thursday, Pakistan urged the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to fully implement the recent resolution demanding the withdrawal of M23 rebels from Goma and other territories in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad emphasized that a military solution is unfeasible for the ongoing conflict, advocating for diplomatic negotiations between the DRC and Rwanda to foster regional peace.
During the discussion on the deteriorating conditions in Eastern DRC, Ambassador Ahmad noted the impacts of the M23’s military offensive, which is supported externally. He stated the offensive has jeopardized the security situation, led to significant humanitarian challenges, and upended the lives of civilians. Ahmad called for the M23 faction to engage sincerely with peace processes led by Angolan and Kenyan leaders.
Acknowledging the efforts of MONUSCO peacekeepers, he pointed out their operational effectiveness in only 60% of the territory due to restrictions imposed by M23 rebels. He urged for the lifting of these limitations and called for accountability measures against those obstructing peacekeeping efforts. Furthermore, there is an imperative need for MONUSCO to strengthen its mandate in collaboration with the DRC government.
UN stabilization mission head, Bintou Keita, briefed the Security Council on the growing control of armed groups linked to M23 in North and South Kivu, which includes establishing a parallel administration in certain regions. She expressed alarm over the rise in violence since M23 seized Goma and Bukavu, indicating a troubling trend of human rights violations, including summary executions and forced recruitment.
Ms. Keita highlighted that children and women are particularly vulnerable, with reports of sexual violence rising amidst the conflict. Concurrently, humanitarian access is severely hindered due to insecurity, compounded by financial limitations, as the Humanitarian Response Plan remains underfunded. In spite of the challenges, MONUSCO continues to protect civilians and negotiate disarmament in Ituri province, while facing movement restrictions from M23.
In summary, the statements made by Pakistan during the UNSC discussions underscore the pressing need for a diplomatic approach to address the ongoing conflict in the DRC. Emphasis on the humanitarian crisis, the challenges faced by MONUSCO, and the protection of civilians reiterate the urgency of cooperative efforts to establish peace and security in the region. A committed engagement among involved parties, particularly the M23, is necessary to facilitate a comprehensive resolution to the conflict.
Original Source: tribune.com.pk
