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SECRETARY KERRY: I don't think we need these big, formal podiums, but let me - it's my
great pleasure to welcome President Kabila of the Democratic Republic of Congo to Washington.
I'm very, very happy he's here. He received me in May on my trip to the D.R.C. We then
talked about the efforts that he is making with respect to strengthening democracy in
the Democratic Republic of Congo.
And we're very grateful to him for the efforts that he has made, the leadership that they've
offered to help deal with the problems of the FDLR and the problems with the M23 group,
which with his military effort and MONUSCO, they were able to help disarm. That process
is continuing and it is a process that will help bring peace and stability ultimately
to the region.
We also talked about economic development and the future. We have a lot to work on and
we look forward to a good conversation today. Thank you, Mr. President, for being with us.
Thank you.
PRESIDENT KABILA: Thanks a lot, Secretary of State. Of course, first of all, I am, myself,
and my delegation glad and happy that we finally meet again in Washington, as I promised I
would come for this particular summit. And I'm glad that on the sidelines of this particular
summit that we're going to raise, once again, the three or four issues in as far as the
situation is concerned, not only in the Congo but the region.
But it's worth noting that since we met, I believe one, two months ago, the situation
has continued to evolve and move forward in the right direction, and that now the Congo
is living the era of peace and that we are moving towards stability and long-term stability
in all sectors - not only security but also economic development and the development of
the region as a whole.
So once again, I'm glad that we're here as per the invitation, and I hope that in our
discussions we definitely are going to raise those issues and chart the way forward in
our relations. Thanks a lot.
SECRETARY KERRY: Thank you, my friend. Thank you, sir.