October 14, 1998 (3:30 p.m. EDT) No. 243

AXWORTHY CONDEMNS SHOOTING DOWN OF CONGO AIRLINES JET AND URGES AN IMMEDIATE CEASE-FIRE

Foreign Affairs Minister Lloyd Axworthy today condemned the recent shooting down of a Congo Airlines jet near the town of Kindu, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and urged all parties to renew immediately negotiations to achieve a cease-fire in the conflict. He also expressed deep concern at this further loss of life and at indications that ethnic hatred and acts of violence are on the rise in the region.

"The use of missiles represents an intensification of the fighting, with its possibility of further deterioration, making it even more urgent for all parties to resume negotiations under the leadership of African leaders for a cessation of hostilities," said Mr. Axworthy. "Canada remains deeply concerned by the lack of movement in the negotiations."

The Minister also underlined his previous calls for action by the international community to support African efforts in the search for an immediate cease-fire, the withdrawal of foreign troops and a negotiated settlement to the current dispute that will ensure the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Democratic Republic of Congo and its neighbours.

"Civilian populations are once again the principal victims in this conflict, which has sparked civilian acts of ethnic violence and discrimination," added Mr. Axworthy. "Canada reminds all parties that they will be held fully accountable for any breach in humanitarian law and human rights."

The downing of the Congo Airlines commercial jet is the latest major development in the conflict, in which forces loyal to the Congolese government have been opposed by rebel fighters since August 2.

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