§ John BarrettTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment he has made of the relationship between the Central African Republic and its neighbouring countries. [70879]
§ Mr. MacShaneThe relationship between the Central African Republic (CAR) and its neighbours is linked to political and social tensions within the country. There was an attempted coup in May 2001 and fighting in November, and serious economic difficulties continue.
Relations with Chad deteriorated late last year when President Deby granted political asylum to General Bozize, former Chief of Staff of the CAR armed forces, allegedly implicated in the May 2001 coup attempt. There was fighting in the border area, but the two governments are now working to reduce tension.
Relations with the Government of DRC are minimal, but the border area is under the control of DRC rebel leader Jean-Pierre Bemba. CAR's relations with Bemba were reportedly strained because the CAR Government believed that he had supported the May 2001 coup attempt; and exacerbated when 23,000 civilians and 1,250 soldiers fled to DRC. Most refugees have now returned with the opening of dialogue between the Government of CAR and their political opposition.
Sudan and CAR currently enjoy good relations. The Sudanese were the first to respond to President Patasse's request for a peacekeeping force following the coup attempt in May 2001.
Cameroon and CAR also enjoy good relations. Negotiations are in train on border delineation and the free movement of goods.
We are not aware of any significant problems in relations between CAR and the Republic of Congo.