The European Parliament,

A. deploring the continued violations of human rights in

Zaire,

B. concerned at the thwarting of the National Conference of

Zaire following the decision by the authorities to cease

financial assistance,

C. whereas this decision deprives Zaire of the possibility of

a peaceful and democratic settlement to the crisis,

D. noting that the deliberate perpetuation of a climate of

insecurity is causing a serious danger of regional and/or

ethnic divisions within Zaire and causing a further

deterioration of its economic and social conditions,

E. whereas the people of Zaire are themselves the first and

principal victims,

1. Stresses the desire of the European Community to promote

pluralist democracy everywhere;

2. Notes that its Committee on Foreign Affairs and Security

is currently considering a report on the establishment of

a European fund for democracy;

3. Regrets the decision to cancel the National Conference of

Zaire;

4. Requests the Government of Zaire to restore the necessary

conditions for the holding of a National Conference,

composed in a way that will enable it to take vigorous and

effective measures;

5. Urges this conference to pave the way for free elections

to be held once a stable political climate is re-

established and requests that these elections be held under

the auspices of the United Nations and in the presence of

EC observers;

6. Calls on the UN, the European Community and the Member

States to set up a 'support fund for democracy in Zaire'

in order to facilitate the proper organization of the

National Conference and preparations for the elections;

7. Considers that the European Community could earmark funds

for this purpose from the budget heading 'Promotion of

Democracy in Africa';

8. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the

Commission, the Council, the Governments of the Member

States, the UN and the Government of the Republic of Zaire.