Statement by Foreign Minister Yukihiko Ikeda
on the Taking of Kinshasa in the Republic of Zaire
by the Alliance of Democratic Forces
for the Liberation of Congo-Zaire (ADFL)

May 19, 1997

Regarding the taking of Kinshasa by the military forces of the Alliance of Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Congo-Zaire (ADFL) in the Republic of Zaire, Japan has consistently stressed the need for a peaceful transition of power in Zaire and considers that the transition of power taking place without large-scale military engagements and large-scale loss of life carries a positive impact on implications for the future reform of Zaire.

Japan strongly hopes that the new government will clearly indicate its commitment to effecting a shift to democracy based on a wide and popular foundation in order to launch the process of true nation-building and that human rights will be respected and an appropriate humanitarian response taken for the remaining refugees, bearing in mind humanitarian concerns. Observing closely the attitudes of the new government in these areas, Japan will formulate its concrete policy.