The government in the Democratic Republic of Congo has expressed regret at the European Union’s decision to withdraw its electoral observation mission from the country.

DR Congo is set to hold presidential and parliamentary elections on 20 December, with 23 candidates running for president, amid a tense political climate.

The cancellation of the observer mission came as discussions on the EU mission's deployment were ongoing, according to the state-run ACP news agency.

In a statement, the government said it was committed to successfully holding the elections with transparency, inclusiveness and freedom, and would welcome all observer missions wishing to work "in accordance with the laws and regulations of DR Congo".

The EU said it withdrew its election observation team after it failed to obtain the necessary authorisation to deploy essential communication equipment such as satellite telephones and internet kits.

Between 80 to 100 EU observers were due to be deployed to monitor the 20 December general elections.