Statement attributable to the Spokesman for the Secretary-General on the Democratic Republic of the Congo

The Secretary-General is deeply concerned by the outbreak of fighting in the Bukavu area leading to an outflow of refugees and internally displaced persons. He calls on all parties concerned to put an immediate end to the hostilities and strictly abide by the ceasefire. The Secretary-General encourages the Transitional Government to address the issue in a consensual manner and reaffirms MONUC's availability to assist in this regard.

The Secretary-General also calls on all concerned to ensure the safety and security of all United Nations and international personnel in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.