02 November 1999
Text: U.S. "Deeply Concerned" by Reported Military Movements in DROC
(Such movements are violation of Lusaka Accord) (310) The United States is "deeply concerned" by reports of military preparations, including the movement of troops and materiel deployed by forces on both sides in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DROC), the U.S. Department of State announced November 2. In a written statement, Spokesman James Rubin said such movements are a violation of the Lusaka Accord, which established a framework for peace in that country. In condemning the actions, he said they "are provocative and risk being used as a pretext for the resumption of fighting." Following is the text of Rubin's statement: (begin text) U.S. Department of State Office of the Spokesman November 2, 1999 STATEMENT BY JAMES P. RUBIN, SPOKESMAN DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO PEACE PROCESS The United States is deeply concerned by reports of military preparations, including the movement of troops and materiel by forces on both sides deployed in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Such movements are prohibited by the Lusaka Accord signed by the states and rebel groups involved in the conflict. In addition, these movements are provocative and risk being used as a pretext for the resumption of fighting. The United States views the Lusaka Accord as an important achievement by the parties to the conflict. It establishes a framework to end the war and to address the underlying problems threatening the stability of the Congo and the region. The U.S. condemns any violation of this accord and stresses that we will hold responsible any government or rebel organization that violates the Accord. It is incumbent on all the signatories to fulfill their commitments and ensure full implementation of the Lusaka Accord. (end text) (Distributed by the Office of International Information Programs, U.S. Department of State)
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