Title: China welcomes the re-election of President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo in the DRC: a commitment to the development of the country
Introduction :
The People’s Republic of China has officially congratulated President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo on his re-election as head of state of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). In a statement delivered at a press conference held on January 10, 2024, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning stressed the importance of cooperation between the two countries and China’s commitment towards the development of the country.
A strategic partnership between China and the DRC:
China considers the DRC as an important partner within the framework of its policy of comprehensive cooperation and strategic partnership. Mao Ning affirmed that China attaches great importance to the development of China-Congolese relations and is willing to work closely with the DRC to strengthen their traditional friendship.
Exchanges and cooperation between China and the DRC will be deepened within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative and the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation. These initiatives aim to promote economic and commercial exchanges between the two countries, thus stimulating economic and social development in the DRC.
Cooperation within the framework of the Silk Road Economic Belt:
China and the DRC signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation within the framework of the Silk Road Economic Belt in January 2021. This project aims to strengthen economic ties between China and the DRC, promoting investments and facilitating trade.
The Silk Road, also known as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), is a major economic development and investment project launched by China in 2013. It aims to restore ancient routes historic trade between East and West, strengthening connections between countries in Asia, Europe, Africa and other regions.
The mutual benefits of Sino-Congolese cooperation:
Despite criticism surrounding the BRI, particularly regarding the issue of partner countries’ debt, China emphasizes its commitment to mutual development and long-term economic cooperation with its partners. Cooperation with the DRC offers development and investment opportunities for both countries, thus contributing to economic growth and improving living conditions in the DRC.
Conclusion :
China congratulates President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo on his re-election as President of the DRC and reaffirms its commitment to the country’s development. Sino-Congolese cooperation, particularly within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative, offers promising prospects for the economic growth and development of the DRC in the future. This strategic partnership between the two countries opens the way to new opportunities to strengthen economic ties and trade, for the benefit of both peoples.