DR Congo President: Africa Must Have a Greater Say on the World Stage

President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of the Congo has called for a stronger and more influential African voice in global affairs, stressing the need for greater continental coordination to defend Africa’s interests and build a more representative international order.

Speaking during a joint press conference with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi in Cairo, Tshisekedi highlighted the deep historical ties between Egypt and the Democratic Republic of the Congo and their shared commitment to sovereignty, independence, and African solidarity.

The Congolese leader expressed his appreciation to President El-Sisi for the warm welcome and hospitality extended to him and his delegation, while also praising the longstanding relationship between the Egyptian and Congolese peoples.

Tshisekedi said his talks with President El-Sisi were marked by openness, mutual trust, and a shared understanding of the challenges facing both countries, Africa, and the wider international community.

The discussions covered a broad range of bilateral cooperation areas, including political and diplomatic coordination, transportation, environmental protection, healthcare, tourism, and urban development.

The Congolese president also welcomed the signing of several agreements and memoranda of understanding between the two countries, describing cooperation between Cairo and Kinshasa as an important model for South-South cooperation and African-led solutions to continental challenges.

He praised Egypt’s support for the construction of a cardiovascular surgery unit at Renaissance Hospital in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, describing the project as a significant symbol of humanitarian cooperation between the two nations.

Tshisekedi also thanked Egypt for its assistance during the Ebola outbreak, saying Cairo’s support demonstrated the strength of African solidarity and friendship.

On the economic front, the Congolese president highlighted investment opportunities available in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, particularly in mining, agriculture, energy, and infrastructure. He encouraged stronger engagement between Egyptian and Congolese business communities to explore new partnerships and investment projects.

Regional developments were also discussed during the meeting, including the security situation in the Great Lakes region, developments in Sudan, and tensions in the Middle East. Tshisekedi reaffirmed his country’s determination to defend its sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national unity while pursuing a just and lasting peace.

He thanked Egypt for its support of Congolese sovereignty and stressed that sustainable peace can only be achieved through respect for international law and non-interference in the internal affairs of states.

Tshisekedi revealed that he and President El-Sisi agreed on the importance of strengthening African coordination and cooperation, arguing that Africa must play a larger role in shaping international decisions.

“Africa must have a stronger voice in the world,” he said, adding that the continent should work collectively to defend its interests and promote a fairer and more inclusive international system.

The Congolese leader described his meeting with President El-Sisi as a significant step toward deepening bilateral relations and building a strategic partnership based on friendship, mutual interests, and a shared vision for Africa’s future.

He concluded by expressing confidence that Africa possesses the resources and potential needed to achieve prosperity for its people and thanked Egypt for its hospitality and constructive discussions.