Kinshasa, August 16th, 2026 (CPA). – The Presidents Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Brice Clotaire Oligui of the Gabonese Republic have agreed on a reciprocal visa exemption as well as a general cooperation agreement during a meeting on Saturday in Libreville, Gabon, according to the Congolese Presidency.
“The willingness of Presidents Felix Tshisekedi Tshilombo and Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema has been formalised through the signing of a memorandum of understanding establishing regular political and diplomatic consultations, an agreement on reciprocal visa exemption, and a general cooperation agreement,” the Presidency has indicated. At the bilateral level, the two Heads of State have agreed to strengthen the framework for consultation between their countries and to explore new opportunities for cooperation, the presidential source has explained, adding that they have placed particular emphasis on encouraging the investments, bringing the Congolese and Gabonese private sectors closer together, and developing mutually beneficial partnerships. “These instruments are intended to intensify dialogue between Kinshasa and Libreville, facilitate the movement of nationals from both countries and create a framework conducive to the diversification of economic exchanges,” the same source has indicated.
Promoting local processing in Africa
The two leaders have also reaffirmed their commitment to the local processing of Africa’s natural resources, which is considered a key driver of the continent’s industrialisation, job creation and economic development. “We are delighted that Africa must now process its natural resources locally on its own soil,” President Oligui has declared the press, whilst also assuring his host of his country’s “full support” for the Congolese candidacy of Juliana Amato for the post of General Secretary of the International Organisation of the Franco phony (OIF).
“The working visit, which is also a gesture of friendship, will continue in the Nkok Special Economic Zone, where the two Heads of State will learn about Gabon’s model for the local processing of timber. This visit is expected to foster the exchange of experiences and encourage the emergence of new industrial partnerships between DRC and Gabon,” the Congolese Presidency has explained. On his arrival at Leon-Mba International Airport, the Congolese Head of State has been welcomed by his counterpart. The Congolese community living in Gabon has also assembled to welcome him. President Tshisekedi has then visited the Leon-Mba mausoleum, where he has laid a wreath and observed a moment of silence in memory of the first President of the Gabonese Republic. CPA/