The Rwandan vice president, Paul Kagame, has acknowledged for the first time that Rwandan troops are helping rebel forces in the current fighting in theneighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo.

General Kagame made the admission after talks with the South African President, Nelson Mandela, in Pretoria.

General Kagame told reporters he had informed Mr Mandela that his forces were in Congo to protect Rwanda's national security.

He refused to say how many soldiers were in Congo.

Up to now, Rwanda has consistently denied reports of involvement in the rebellion against President Laurent Kabila.

Mr Mandela said the Rwandan statement paved the way for a ceasefire in the Congo conflict.