The 60th Session of the Human Rights Council, Item 2 and 10: Enhanced interactive dialogue on Democratic Republic of the Congo, Statement by Mr. TAKEUCHI Yasuaki (9 September 2025)

   Thank you, Mr. Vice-President.

   Japan expresses its appreciation for the timely update by the distinguished speakers and for the reports by the High Commissioner, the Fact-Finding Mission and the International Team of Experts on the human rights situation in the DRC. We consider it highly important to ensure accountability for human rights violations and abuses and violations of international humanitarian law.

   Japan welcomes the significant progress made in the past few months; notably, the signing of a peace agreement between the DRC and Rwanda, and the signing of the Declaration of Principles between the Government of DRC and the AFC/M23. We hope that the peace agreement will be implemented steadily, leading to peace, stability, and development throughout the region.

   Japan remains deeply concerned by the devastating human rights situation in eastern DRC due to the escalation of fighting and violence, which has forced hundreds of thousands to flee their homes over the years. Japan calls for all parties to the conflict to commit to an immediate end to the violence, particularly mass killings and sexual violence, and to respect international human rights law and international humanitarian law.

   We will continue to support all efforts to prevent further escalation and remain committed to working with the international community to advance human rights and peace and security in the DRC.

   
    I thank you.