The DRC and China are moving together in their partnership focused on Congolese mines, following a contract considered the “contract of the century”. However, this contract was decried several years later by the Congolese party, and the IGF report denounced the unbalanced nature of this agreement.
After a state visit to China by President Félix Tshisekedi, the two Heads of State decided to further enhance their partnership, by raising Sino-Congolese relations to the level of comprehensive cooperation and a strategic partnership.
The rebalancing of the Sino-Congolese contract is at the heart of the discussions between the authorities of these two countries. The two parties agreed to maintain consultation and revitalize the China-DRC Joint Economic and Trade Cooperation Commission, to define and oversee bilateral cooperation.
The DRC is asking China to rebalance this agreement, with 17 billion dollars in additional investments. President Félix Tshisekedi wishes to consolidate and expand cooperation between the two countries based on sound foundations guaranteeing the principles of mutual respect, fairness and transparency beneficial to both the Congolese and Chinese peoples.
This Sino-Congolese partnership also has implications for regional security. The two countries seek to strengthen their military cooperation to combat security challenges in the region.
Despite the internal challenges, the strengthening of Sino-Congolese cooperation is a major challenge for the socio-economic development of the DRC. The country also needs investments in infrastructure to ensure its emergence, as highlighted in the visionary book by Senator Francine Muyumba.
However, the DRC faces internal challenges, such as political tensions and persistent violence. The opposition is often the victim of police repression and the displaced are asking for urgent intervention to resolve the crisis in Kwango province.
In this difficult context, culture and art remain important vectors for revealing the aspirations of the Congo. The exhibition of painter Patsheli Kahambo at the Malabo Gallery in Kinshasa reflects the energy and aspirations of the Congolese people.
In short, the Sino-Congolese partnership is a major challenge for the future of the DRC, but the internal challenges must be addressed to ensure its socio-economic development and guarantee the security of its citizens.