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U.S. Department of State Office of the Spokesman Press Statement

Press Statement by James P. Rubin, Spokesman
February 9, 1999

The Democratic Republic of the Congo

We commend President Chiluba of Zambia for his continuing effort to mediate the conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. In an attempt to find a viable solution, he is communicating with heads of state and bringing together officials of the belligerent states. Peace and stability in the region are paramount to continued democratization and economic growth in Africa. We hope President Chiluba's leadership will help bring to an end to the strife in the Congo. It has involved too many parties that need to focus on developing their countries to meet the challenges of the 21st century.

We urge all parties to reach a peaceful settlement that addresses the underlying causes of the conflict: the security concerns of Congo's neighbors, the lack of broad-based participation in the political process, and the need to safeguard the rights of all ethnic groups. We also call on all parties to respect the human rights and lives of humanitarian workers and other non-combatants.

We reiterate our full support for the Congo's territorial integrity and sovereignty. We are concerned about any violation of those principles, including the rebel appointment of "governors" and other officials, their issuance of "visas," and reports that the rebels and their allies are smuggling commodities such as timber, gold, and diamonds out of the Congo.

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