"Statement by Ambassador Usman Jadoon, Deputy Permanent Representative of Pakistan, At the Security Council Meeting on the Situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) (26 June 2026) **** Madam President, I thank Special Representative James Swan for his briefing. I also welcome the participation of PR of Rwanda in the meeting. Madam President, 2. Pakistan shares the concerns regarding the continued deterioration of the security situation in North and South Kivu. The persistence of hostilities, the continued territorial expansion and consolidation of control by AFC/M23, the increasing use of armed drones, and the worsening humanitarian situation underscore the urgent need to translate political commitments into tangible improvements in security and stability. 3. Pakistan welcomes the sustained diplomatic engagement under the African Union-led mediation, the Doha Framework and the Washington Accords. We commend the efforts of the African Union, Qatar, the United States, Angola and the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for the Great Lakes Region. Important progress has been made in advancing dialogue and establishing the framework necessary for a ceasefire. The focus must now be on implementation and on securing a durable cessation of hostilities. 4. The Secretary-General’s report notes encouraging progress in operationalizing ceasefire oversight and verification arrangements, including through the Expanded Joint Verification Mechanism and related structures. These are important steps toward building confidence among the parties and creating conditions for sustainable peace. 5. Full implementation of resolution 2773 and the commitments undertaken under the various peace processes remains essential. Pakistan notes the renewal of the DRC sanctions regime earlier today. We hope that the measures adopted will support implementation of resolutions 2773 and 2808 and contribute to advancing peace and stability in eastern DRC. 6. Pakistan supports a pragmatic and phased approach to MONUSCO’s future role in supporting ceasefire arrangements. MONUSCO remains the only impartial international presence with the institutional experience, logistical reach and operational capabilities required to support stabilization efforts and the protection of civilians. Once conditions permit, the Mission can play a constructive role in supporting monitoring and verification arrangements, including in South Kivu. 7. At the same time, any such role must be guided by realities on the ground. Freedom of movement, unhindered access, cooperation of the parties, and above all the safety and security of peacekeepers are indispensable prerequisites for success. The Council must ensure that expectations placed on MONUSCO are realistic and matched by the capabilities and resources available to the Mission. Madam President, 8. Pakistan pays tribute to the men and women of MONUSCO serving under exceptionally difficult circumstances, including in areas affected by the ongoing Ebola outbreak. Their professionalism, dedication and sacrifice remain indispensable to the protection of civilians and the pursuit of lasting peace. 9. Pakistan reaffirms its strong support for the sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of the DRC. We call on all parties to honour their commitments, fully implement resolution 2773, and create the conditions necessary for a credible, verifiable and lasting ceasefire. I thank you."