    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: WILLIAM J. CLINTON (1999, Book II)]
    [September 1, 1999]
    [Pages 1482-1483]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Congo Conflict Cease-Fire Agreement
    September 1, 1999

        I welcome the signing of a cease-fire agreement by founding members
    of the Rally for Congolese Democracy (RCD) yesterday in Lusaka. Their
    signature brings into force the Lusaka accord, signed by six African
    heads of state on July 10th and aimed at ending the war in the
    Democratic Republic of the Congo. In a region that has seen terrible
    violence, there is now a chance for a genuine and just peace. I urge all
    parties to implement and adhere to the agreement and to act in good
    faith to enable the citizens of the Congo and neighboring states to
    pursue their lives in peace, prosperity, and democracy.
        I especially congratulate the leaders of the Southern African
    Development Community

    [[Page 1483]]

    (SADC), Rwanda, and Uganda for working together to secure RCD signature
    of the Lusaka accord. This agreement is the result of the vision,
    dedication, and courage of regional nations and their leaders. It is a
    crucial step in ending one of the continent's most dangerous wars. The
    same courage and commitment are now required to see the accord fully
    implemented.
        The continuing effort to build an enduring peace deserves America's
    support. We will work closely with all parties to realize the goals of
    the Lusaka accord: to achieve a broadbased, democratic, and open
    political process in the Congo and to address the security concerns of
    neighboring states. I hope the agreement will help end the cycle of
    violence in the region and promote stability and reconstruction across
    central Africa.