Delivered by Mrs. Ameirah Alhefeiti Deputy Permanent Representative

UNOFFICIAL TRANSLATION

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Thank you, Madam President.

The United Arab Emirates welcomes today’s unanimous adoption of two important resolutions relating to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). We appreciate the flexibility shown by Council members during the negotiation process.

The UAE voted in favor of renewing MONUSCO’s mandate, because we believe that the Mission still plays a vital role in ensuring the protection of civilians, facilitating humanitarian assistance, and supporting the government of DRC as it strives to build a peaceful and prosperous nation.

With regard to the humanitarian crisis, the UAE expresses its deep concern over the magnitude of this crisis in the country. We support the efforts by Congolese and international humanitarian actors to reach those in need.  Today’s mandate refers to the need to facilitate the trade of essential commodities to meet civilians’ basic survival needs, which requires every effort to address the activities of armed groups and their impact on the humanitarian situation.

Madam President,

Last week, DRC experienced its worst flooding since 2019, causing extensive loss and damage that added to the country’s challenges. It is therefore imperative for this Council to seriously consider how to deal with the negative effects of climate change, including by receiving high-quality data and analysis on how climate impacts may exacerbate risks. Doing so will provide accurate information and analysis to find effective ways to rise to the challenge before us today. The UAE has proposed that the Secretary-General’s report include reporting on climate security. Unfortunately, this proposal was not included in today’s resolution on MONUSCO.

Finally, I reiterate my country’s support for the resolution aimed at lifting the “advance notification requirement” on military assistance to the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo in order to enable it to respond effectively to the challenges it faces. We also stress the importance of ensuring that weapons are prevented from reaching armed groups.

In conclusion, Madam President, the UAE is committed to supporting all efforts aiming at achieving peace and stability in DRC.

I thank you.