Democratic Republic of Congo President Felix Tshisekedi will not attend the UN General Assembly in New York this week.
Prime Minister Judith Suminwa will lead the country’s delegation instead.
The Congolese government confirmed Tshisekedi’s absence. However, it did not publicly give a reason for his decision.
Radio France Internationale reported that his absence was linked to US travel restrictions introduced during the Ebola outbreak.
US restricts travel from DR Congo
The United States currently has temporary restrictions on people who have recently been in DR Congo.
Under the rules, travelers who have been in the country during the previous 21 days cannot board commercial flights to the United States.
The restriction also applies to US citizens and nationals.
Travelers must remain outside DR Congo for at least 21 days before traveling to the United States.
US health authorities introduced the measures to reduce the risk of Ebola cases entering the country.
The current outbreak in DR Congo involves Bundibugyo virus disease, a type of Ebola.
Suminwa to represent DR Congo
Suminwa is expected to represent DR Congo during the UN high-level meetings from September 22 to 26.
Her agenda is expected to include peace and security, development and investment.
She is also expected to hold bilateral meetings focused on international cooperation.
Tshisekedi has regularly attended the annual UN gathering since becoming president.
However, Congolese authorities have not said whether the US travel restrictions were the only reason for his absence.
Ebola outbreak affects travel
The Ebola outbreak has led to tighter public health measures affecting international travel from DR Congo.
US health authorities say the temporary restrictions are intended to reduce the risk of the disease entering the country.
Different measures also apply to some travelers linked to Uganda and South Sudan.
The restrictions come as health authorities continue efforts to contain the outbreak in DR Congo.