Rebel spokesmen in the Democratic Republic of Congo say a leading rebel figure, Ernest Wamba dia Wamba, has had a meeting in Tripoli with the Libyan head of state, Colonel Gadaffi.

They said the leaders discussed the conflict between the rebels and President Laurent Kabila.

In separate talks, Colonel Gadaffi has also met a Somali delegation, led by two faction leaders, Ali Mahdi Mohamed and Hussein Aidid.

The Libyan news agency said they expressed appreciation over Colonel Gadaffi's efforts to develop their country.