For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
July 18, 2003

Statement on Republic of the Congo
Statement by the President

I congratulate President Joseph Kabila and the Congolese people on the installation of the new transitional government in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. I also extend congratulations to Vice Presidents Jean-Pierre Bemba, Abdoulaye Yerodia, Azarias Ruberwa, and Z'Ahidi Ngoma. The arrival of former rebel leaders in Kinshasa and their participation with former opposition parties in the new government is a major achievement that sets the country on a course toward peace and democratic elections. I am confident that the Congolese people will be well served by the experience and vision these five leaders bring to these important posts.

The United States will work closely with President Kabila and the transitional government to promote peace, prosperity, and democracy for all Congolese. I call upon neighboring countries to join us in supporting Congo's new government during this crucial time.

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