China and the Democratic Republic of Congo have recently strengthened their relations. Indeed, the Congolese President, Felix Tshisekedi, visited China and several memorandums of understanding were signed between the two countries. This clearly shows the willingness of the two countries to cooperate in areas outside the collaboration agreement centered on “natural resources against infrastructure” and signed more than ten years ago.
However, this relationship between China and the DRC must go beyond the MOU without binding legal scope. The Congolese president hopes to transform these MOUs into real commitments to lead to a win-win partnership for the two countries. He also hopes that this partnership will serve as an example for other countries and will create opportunities for Africa.
It is obvious that this new partnership should not be based solely on the establishment of infrastructures, but indeed on a lasting public/private relationship that respects everyone’s interests. The DRC and China must settle past disputes between them, such as the dispute between the DRC and Chinese cobalt producers.
The Sino-Congolese partnership can become a symbol for the rest of Africa, proving that South-South cooperation is possible and can lead to significant achievements. The coming months will be crucial to follow the evolution of this relationship.
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