Press Statement Richard Boucher, Spokesman Washington, DC July 16, 2004
Great Lakes TalksThe United States hosted the second round of meetings July 14 to July 15 between the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rwanda and Uganda, helping these countries in facilitating efforts to enhance regional stability. Under Secretary Grossman and Assistant Secretary Newman participated in these discussions.
The United States Government commends and expresses deep appreciation to Rwandan Foreign Minister Charles Murigande, Congolese Foreign Minister Antoine Ghonda, and Ugandan Defense Minister Amama Mbabazi for their on-going efforts toward increasing peace and stability in the Great Lakes region.
The three countries agreed on the formation of a trilateral commission, to strengthen implementation of existing agreements.
These promising results reflect political will on all sides to work together to deal with armed groups and regional conflict. The parties are issuing a communiqué explaining their work thus far. The three countries will meet soon in the region to continue this important process.
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