It was with great concern that Foreign Minister Steinmeier learned of the violence in Kinshasa and other cities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Minister Steinmeier calls on all those with political responsibility to prevent further escalation of the situation. The security forces in particular have a special responsibility to stop the bloodshed.

The conflict erupted over the presidential elections that are due to be held this year. It is the government that is responsible for setting an election date. If the constitutional deadline expires before political consensus is reached on an early election date, this will continue to threaten domestic peace and cause further damage to the country’s international reputation.

Germany and its European and international partners are ready to provide financial assistance and expertise, with a view to supporting a credible election process.