Letter: Angola denies Zaire meddling

Sir: The reports cited by Richard Gott ("A bend in the river, a twist of history", 12 March), alleging that the Angolan government has been sending men and weapons to support the forces of Laurent Kabila in eastern Zaire, are absolutelyuntrue.

My government upholds peaceful co-existence and the policy of non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries.

The build-up of Angolan forces in Cabinda Province is related to the need to defend national sovereignty and the civilian population against the military activity of separatist groups operating in the enclave.

The Angolan government has repeatedly called for a peaceful solution to the situation in Zaire and supports diplomatic efforts being made to end the crisis.

ANTONIO DaCOSTA FERNANDES

Ambassador

Embassy of the Republic of Angola

London W1