U.S. Role in Congo Crisis

“Once Again, We Ignore Africa’s Pain” (Commentary, Dec. 14) brings attention to the very serious Congo crisis. It also rightly cautions our president against making vague security commitments abroad. A big part of the problem is Congo President Laurent Kabila. His failure to move his country toward democracy and a better human rights record is glaring. His unwillingness to meet with rebels operating in his country is problematic. Meanwhile, governments involved in the conflict, particularly Rwanda, feel that their very survival is at stake. The scramble for mineral riches being undertaken by many parties in Congo fuels this fire.

The U.S. has influence with some of the warring countries, which should be used. But a “menace-filled deadline” would mean little. No one, including Africans, is advocating sending U.S. troops to Central Africa. The U.S. should make these diplomatic efforts, regardless of America’s commercial and strategic interests in Africa. Contrary to what was stated, these interests are substantial. Two-way trade between the U.S. and sub-Saharan Africa, now supporting 100,000 U.S. jobs, has reached a record level three years running.

I remain confident that the U.S. will increase its attention to Africa. Our interests demand it.

REP. EDWARD R. ROYCE

(R-Fullerton), Chairman

House Subcommittee on Africa

Washington