§ Lord Hyltonasked Her Majesty's Government:
What steps they will take to support and consolidate the recent peace agreement in the Congo; and what action they will take to encourage other governments to do likewise. [HL847]
§ Baroness AmosThe 17 December agreement on transitional Congolese Government is a very positive development. We would encourage all the parties 11WA involved to establish the new government as soon as possible.
We are exploring direct assistance to the new government. We are considering Quick Start initiatives to demonstrate the benefits of peace to the Congolese people. Consideration is also being given to other areas, including disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration of all armed groups; forming a new national army; and poverty reduction. We will continue existing humanitarian and peace building activities and support re-engagement in DRC by the international financial institutions.
We will take every opportunity, particularly in the UN Security Council and EU, to encourage other governments to play a similarly constructive role.