Statement Current situation in eastern Congo

“Many people in eastern Congo and in Rwanda are struggling with extreme poverty after years of conflict. If there is one thing they do not need, it is the escalating violence we are now seeing which is forcibly displacing hundreds of thousands of people. This violence urgently needs to stop. The principle of the inviolability of borders applies everywhere in the world, including in eastern Congo. As urged by both the UN Security Council yesterday and the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Rwanda’s soldiers and the rebel group M23 which is receiving their support need to withdraw immediately. All sides need to take part in negotiations and contribute to de-escalation. We are prepared to support the countries in pursuing peaceful development – but they also need to do their part to contribute to peace.”