Title: Economic cooperation between the DRC and Angola at the heart of a promising forum
Introduction :
The economic partnership between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the Republic of Angola is at the center of a first edition of the Economic Forum held in Kinshasa. This initiative, organized by the Ministries of Economy of the two countries, marks an important step towards a solid and emerging economic cooperation. For two days, experts and entrepreneurs from the two countries discussed economic cooperation, business opportunities, movement of goods and people, as well as common border security issues.
Strong historical and cultural ties:
The Economic Forum between the DRC and Angola has its roots in the ancient kingdoms of Kongo and the Lunda Empire. These two kingdoms marked the territories currently occupied by the two countries and symbolize the will of their respective leaders to promote mutually beneficial economic cooperation. DRC Prime Minister Jean-Michel Sama Lukonde stresses that despite the land and sea border that separates them, the two nations remain “one and the same people”.
Abundant natural resources for sustainable development:
The DRC and Angola have important natural resources such as diamonds, copper, oil, as well as a rich biodiversity in fauna and flora. These assets constitute a solid basis for the sustainable economic development of the two countries. The Economic Forum also opens up opportunities for the Grand Inga integrator project, which aims to supply electrical energy to Angola. This strengthened economic partnership between the DRC and Angola could thus contribute to the emergence of a free trade zone in Central Africa.
Towards regional economic integration:
Prime Minister Sama Lukonde believes that the rapprochement between the DRC and Angola can lay the groundwork for the creation of a free trade zone. This initiative could kick off the economic integration of all of Central Africa and contribute to the creation of a free trade area in sub-Saharan Africa. He stresses that the Economic Forum will strengthen trade and economic ties between the two countries, fostering mutually beneficial partnerships and investments.
Conclusion :
The first Economic Forum between the DRC and Angola proved to be an important step in strengthening economic cooperation between the two countries. Strong historical and cultural ties, as well as abundant natural resources, offer promising prospects for sustainable economic development. By promoting trade, partnerships and investments, this forum paves the way for regional economic integration and the creation of a free trade area in Central Africa