§ Lord Moynihanasked Her Majesty's Government:
What efforts they have made to persuade President Kabila to hold talks with the rebel forces in the Democratic Republic of Congo, in the interests of preventing a wider regional conflagration. [HL297]
§ Baroness Symons of Vernham DeanWe have been working hard to promote a peaceful solution to the crisis in the DRC. Most recently, the Prime Minister has written to President Kabila and other regional leaders urging an early agreement on a ceasefire. We are also taking action with our European Union partners and in the UN Security Council to promote a negotiated settlement. This must be based on the acceptance of territorial sovereignty and integrity of the DRC, the security concerns of neighbouring states and the aspirations of all sections of Congolese society.