The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Indonesia signed a letter of intent on military cooperation between the two countries in Jakarta. The purpose of this cooperation is to promote and develop activities in the fields of defence, education and training as well as in the field of the defense industry. Congolese Deputy Prime Minister of National Defense Jean-Pierre Bemba also visited Indonesian military industries to learn about military equipment and modernization of the Congolese Armed Forces.
The DRC is interested in Indonesian military industries with a view to military equipment and the modernization of its armed forces. This collaboration could allow the DRC to acquire advanced technologies for its army and contribute to the reform of the defense sector.
This letter of intent is a start of cooperation between the two countries, but discussions will be necessary to establish a cooperation program to be signed shortly. This cooperation could provide economic opportunities for the two countries and strengthen their diplomatic relationship.
However, it is important to underline that this cooperation takes place in a context of regional tensions and conflicts in the DRC. Military cooperation between the two countries also raises questions about human rights and corporate responsibility overseas.
In short, this cooperation between Indonesia and the DRC is a positive signal in the reform of the Congolese defense sector. However, it remains important that this cooperation is guided by ethical principles and that the economic benefits are mutual.