Press release

Security situation in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo: FCDO minister's statement

UK Minister of State for Development and Africa, Andrew Mitchell commented following a conversation with the Foreign Minister of Rwanda, Dr Vincent Biruta.

This was published under the 2022 to 2024 Sunak Conservative government

Statement by Rt Hon Andrew Mitchell MP, Minister of State (Development and Africa):

This morning I spoke to Foreign Minister of Rwanda, Dr Vincent Biruta. We had a constructive conversation about the deteriorating security situation in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) given the advances of M23, and the steps needed to end the conflict. I expressed my concerns about the worrying humanitarian situation and the impact on civilians is unacceptable.

The UK calls on all countries in the region to do all they can, including through the African-led peace processes, to stop the fighting and bring all parties back to the negotiating table.

Media enquiries

Email [email protected]

Telephone 020 7008 3100

Contact the FCDO Communication Team via email (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

Updates to this page

Published 17 November 2022