PRESS STATEMENT ON DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO BY SECURITY COUNCIL PRESIDENT

Following is today’s statement to the press on the Democratic Republic of the Congo by Security Council President Mamady Traoré (Guinea):

Members of the Council welcome the agreement reached among Congolese parties in Pretoria.  They stressed the importance of the transitional Government in the Democratic Republic of the Congo being established as soon as possible.

Members of the Council express their deep concern at the continuation of fighting in Bunia.  They demand the immediate cessation of hostilities and that the Ituri Pacification Commission be immediately established.  They recall that the withdrawal of all foreign troops from the territory of the Democratic Republic of the Congo must now be completed, and urge Uganda to abide by its commitment to withdraw its troops by 20 March

Members of the Council demand that all parties ensure the security of civilian populations and guarantee full access of humanitarian organizations to those in need.

Members of the Council reiterate their full support for United Nations Organization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUC)’s efforts to facilitate a peaceful settlement in the north-east of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

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