China backs quick, robust Security Council response to eastern DRC violence and urges withdrawal of M23 forces

Ambassador Fusong said China is "very concerned about the situation in Congo" and called for a ceasefire and the withdrawal of M23 forces from territory they have occupied. He urged Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to engage in peace talks and mediation processes such as those held in Nairobi.

Asked whether China would support Security Council language naming Rwanda or sanctioning Kigali, Ambassador Fusong said consultations are under way and that "there is a possibility of having a resolution"; he added that China "is in full support of this" in both its national capacity and as Council president if the proposal follows consultation. He said the underlying view is that "there is no military solution to this conflict" and that peace talks are the only way out.

The ambassador reiterated that the council will closely follow developments in eastern DRC, where he described the situation as "deteriorating rapidly," and that the Council would act in ways "most conducive to the cessation of hostilities and the easing of tensions." He said the DRC's territorial integrity must be respected and demanded the withdrawal of M23 and "some of the Rwandan troops" from occupied territory.

China's comments came amid questions from correspondents about whether the Council should single out Rwanda and whether sanctions requested by the DRC should be imposed; the ambassador said the scope of measures, including sanctions, remains subject to consultation among member states and that China was leaving that option open for discussion.