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UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan met with Democratic Republic of Congo President Félix Tshisekedi to discuss strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation between the two nations. The meeting, held at Qasr Al Shati Palace in Abu Dhabi, focused on advancing shared developmental priorities and enhancing economic ties. President Tshisekedi is currently undertaking a working visit to the UAE.
During the discussions, both leaders expressed mutual commitment to advancing UAE-Congo relations across multiple sectors. Sheikh Mohamed welcomed the Congolese president and emphasized that bilateral relations have witnessed continuous development in recent years, particularly in economic, investment, and trade domains.
Economic Cooperation and Investment Opportunities
The UAE president highlighted his country’s significant interest in developing relations with African nations to achieve mutual prosperity. According to statements from the meeting, both sides expressed their determination to push cooperation forward and capitalize on all available opportunities. This approach aligns with the UAE’s broader strategy of strengthening partnerships across the African continent.
The leaders emphasized leveraging existing opportunities to benefit both countries and their populations. However, specific details regarding new investment projects or trade agreements were not disclosed during the initial announcement of the meeting.
Regional and International Cooperation
Additionally, Sheikh Mohamed and President Tshisekedi reviewed several regional and international issues of mutual concern. Both leaders stressed the importance of working together to promote peace and stability in the region and globally. The discussions reflected shared priorities on security and diplomatic cooperation between the UAE and Democratic Republic of Congo.
In this context, the UAE president noted that Congo’s membership in the United Nations Security Council, which began in January 2026, represents a significant opportunity. According to Sheikh Mohamed, this development will enhance bilateral cooperation within the UN framework to serve regional and international peace interests.
Strengthening UAE-Congo Relations for Shared Development
The meeting underscores the UAE’s continued commitment to expanding its diplomatic and economic footprint in Africa. Meanwhile, the Democratic Republic of Congo seeks to attract foreign investment and technical expertise to support its development goals. The country possesses vast natural resources and represents one of Africa’s largest economies by landmass.
The emphasis on economic and investment cooperation suggests both nations view the partnership as strategically beneficial. Nevertheless, observers note that translating diplomatic goodwill into concrete projects requires sustained effort and follow-through from both governments.
High-Level Attendance Signals Priority Status
The meeting was attended by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Special Affairs, along with several ministers and senior officials. The presence of high-ranking UAE officials and President Tshisekedi’s accompanying delegation highlighted the importance both sides attach to strengthening bilateral ties.
In contrast to routine diplomatic exchanges, the level of participation suggests both governments view the relationship as a priority within their respective foreign policy frameworks. This high-level engagement typically precedes announcements of substantive cooperation agreements or initiatives.
Further details regarding specific outcomes from the working visit are expected to emerge as President Tshisekedi’s schedule in the UAE continues. Authorities have not confirmed whether formal agreements will be signed during this visit or whether follow-up meetings are planned to advance the cooperation discussed between the two leaders.
