As regards the reciprocity invoked following the individual sanctions adopted against certain Congolese citizens, the EU would point out that these measures are linked to human rights violations and to the obstacles created to a peaceful resolution to the crisis in the DRC. They were adopted unanimously by the 28 EU member states on 12 December 2016 and 29 May 2017 and will be examined again to take into account the elections in the DRC, and possibly adapted accordingly.

The EU is a major partner of the DRC and its people, maintaining close cooperation with them. On the eve of elections of crucial importance for the country, it considers this decision to be totally counter-productive, and contrary to the interests of the people of the DRC.

As stated on behalf of the EU by High Representative Federica Mogherini on 22 November 2018, inclusive, transparent, credible and peaceful elections will be important for the EU's future engagement in the DRC. The EU fully shares the concerns expressed by the leaders from the region present at an emergency meeting held in Brazzaville on 26 December 2018, and their call for a de-escalation and restraint to allow the elections to be held calmly.

https://www.consilium.europa.eu