Mr. President,

1. My delegation took the floor to refute the unfounded allegations made against Rwanda by the delegations of Burundi and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Assertions made before this Council should be supported by verifiable facts, particularly when addressing a conflict involving multiple States, armed groups and other actors.

2. It is important to recall that Burundi is itself a direct military actor in eastern DRC. Burundian forces remain deployed in South Kivu and have participated in military operations alongside the Congolese armed forces and the coalition it has been documented it created with the Front Démocratique de Liberation du Rwanda FDLR and Wazalendo militia. This involvement has been documented by independent reporting and cannot be overlooked when discussing responsibility for the continuing hostilities.

3. The intensification of military operations in South Kivu, including the use of drones, aircraft and heavy weapons, has placed civilian populations at considerable risk. Rather than advancing selective accusations, this Council should insist on credible verification of the conduct of all parties and accountability for violations committed against civilians.

4. Rwanda call against attempts to deflect responsibility for the complex security and human rights situation in eastern DRC. The presence and activities of numerous armed groups, foreign forces and other armed actors must form part of any credible assessment of the situation.

5. Burundi should focus on addressing the human rights concerns within its own jurisdiction, including strengthening the human rights provided for all its citizens.

6. The Democratic Republic of the Congo should contribute constructively to the implementation of existing peace commitments, including the Washington framework, and refrain from undermining these efforts. 

7. Burundi should address the human rights concerns within its own jurisdiction, including provide equal protection and opportunities for all its citizens.

8. Rwanda remains committed to regional peace. Allegations should not substitute for evidence, nor should this Council be used to obscure the responsibilities of actors directly engaged in the conflict.