President, 

I thank Special Representative Bintou Ketia for the briefing, and welcome the representatives of the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda to this meeting. 

Recently, the security situation in eastern DRC has remained tense and its humanitarian situation has continued to deteriorate. The international community should spare no effort, without delay, to lift millions of people in eastern DRC from their sufferings and bring them the dawn of lasting peace. 

First, we call for cessation of hostilities. In the recent past, the conflicts in eastern DRC were eased in terms of intensity. However, M23 is still fortifying military deployment and occupying more towns. Sporadic exchanges of fire have claimed hundreds of innocent lives. China reiterates that Council Resolution 2773 must be implemented, that acts of harming civilians and violating international humanitarian law must end, and that indiscriminate killings of innocent lives must be held accountable. All parties must make a lasting ceasefire an overwhelming premise and cease any actions that might lead to escalation. 

Second, we call for dialogue and negotiations in good faith. The recent implementation of the peace agreement between the DRC and Rwanda has been lagging, with future prospects being uncertain. China encourages the DRC, Rwanda, and others to demonstrate political will and honor their commitments in earnest. The international community must continue to support the mediation by Qatar and facilitate a consensus on the peace agreement between M23 and the DRC as soon as possible. China commends the UN, the AU, and subregional organizations for their contribution to peace in eastern DRC, and supports strengthened coordination among all parties and synergy in their mediation. 

Third, we call for the alleviation of the humanitarian crisis. The humanitarian situation in DRC is one of the most pressing global crises. Protracted conflicts and turmoil have caused massive civilian displacement. The parties concerned are obligated to ensure that the humanitarian corridors stay safe and unhindered. Obstructing humanitarian relief work runs counter to international law. The humanitarian response for the DRC is facing a huge funding gap. The international community, traditional donors in particular, should provide more financial support to meet the basic survival needs of the local population. 

Fourth, we call for ensuring the fulfillment of peacekeeping mandates. As of now, MONUSCO remains under movement restrictions, which have severely hindered material supply and personnel rotation, endangering the supply of water, electricity, and fuel. MONUSCO, a peacekeeping operation authorized by the Council, undertakes important tasks such as the protection of civilians. China calls all the relevant parties to lift restrictions on MONUSCO and stop threats to peacekeepers to ensure effective implementation of the Mission's mandates. The Council should consider, in a timely manner, adjusting MONUSCO's mandates and deployment to enable it to better adapt to the changes on the ground. 

President, 

For quite some time, SRSG Ketia has been leading MONUSCO to overcome difficulties and actively perform its duties. China will continue to support the SRSG and MONUSCO in their efforts to promote security and stability in the DRC. As a good friend of the countries in the region, China remains committed to working with all parties and making unremitting efforts to restore peace and stability and achieve development and prosperity in the region. 

Thank you, President.