November 2023, New York – President of the Republic Félix Tshisekedi recently met in New York Peter Mathuki, Secretary General of the East African Community (EAC) and Elias Mpedi Magosi, Executive Secretary of the Development Community Southern Africa (SADC). The meeting was held on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly and was an opportunity to discuss several subjects of importance for the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the region.
According to information relayed by the Presidency services, discussions focused on the deployment of the SADC mission in the DRC, the next elections and regional integration. The Congolese government, dissatisfied with the results of the EAC troops, had requested for several months the support of the SADC in its fight against the M23 terrorists, supported by Rwanda. Despite a mixed record, the EAC mission was extended until December 2023 during the Extraordinary Summit of Heads of State of the East African Community.
The two regional organizations, the EAC and the SADC, play an active role in resolving the security situation in eastern DRC. Notably through the Luanda road map and the Nairobi talks, initiated by Angolan President João Lourenço and former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta. The aim is to find lasting solutions to security problems in the region and to promote regional integration.
Beyond the security issue, the meeting between President Tshisekedi and representatives of the EAC and SADC also addressed economic issues. Particular attention was paid to the conversion of Kasumbalesa Customs into a one-stop shop. This measure aims to facilitate the movement of goods and populations in the region, thus promoting cross-border trade and economic integration.
This meeting underlines the importance of regional cooperation in resolving security and economic issues affecting the DRC. It also demonstrates President Tshisekedi’s desire to strengthen ties with neighboring countries and promote a collective approach to confront common challenges.
In short, this meeting between President Tshisekedi, Peter Mathuki of the EAC and Elias Mpedi Magosi of the SADC marks a crucial step in the search for sustainable solutions for the security and development of the DRC and the region. It demonstrates President Tshisekedi’s determination to work for stronger regional integration and to work in collaboration with regional partners to achieve this objective. Regional cooperation is therefore essential for the DRC and its neighbors, in order to promote peace, stability and development throughout the region.