DRC-RSA: economic and diplomatic issues discussed by leaders in Pretoria

Kinshasa, September 18^th, 2025 (CPA).- Issues of economic, diplomatic and security interest, among others, have been on the agenda during talks between the South African President and his counterpart from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) on Thursday at the Mahlamba Ndlopfu Presidential Palace in Pretoria, according to the Congolese Presidency. « Presidents Felix Tshisekedi and Cyril Matamela Ramaphosa had talks for over two hours on Thursday at the Mahlamba Ndlopfu presidential palace in Pretoria. At the end of the working lunch, the two heads of state had not made any public declaration. However, their respective entourages have confirmed that the meeting has focused on topics of mutual and strategic interest, » the source has indicated.

“This mission is part of efforts to strengthen strategic cooperation between Kinshasa and Pretoria in the political, economic, diplomatic, and security spheres,” the source has added. President Tshisekedi has made this visit, of a few hours’ duration, in response to an invitation from his South African counterpart Cyril Ramaphosa. Upon arrival at the military airport, the Head of State has been welcomed by the South African Deputy Minister in charge of Foreign Affairs, Ms. Thandi Moreka.

The presidential motorcade has then headed to the Mahlamba Ndlopfu presidential palace, where a one-on-one meeting between the two heads of state was scheduled, followed by a working lunch.

The two heads of state accompanied their delegations

In his delegation, Felix Tshisekedi was accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister in charge of Defence Guy Kabombo, Minister of State in charge of Foreign Affairs Therese Kayikwamba Wagner, and Minister in charge of Finance Doudou Fwamba. The two African leaders had also been in Kinshasa in July 2023, apart from attending various summits of African Heads of State and Government.  

Cyril Ramaphosa and Felix Tshisekedi had reaffirmed their desire to strengthen the friendly relations and partnership between the two countries, with a strong focus on security cooperation. Several memoranda of understanding covering mining, employment, transport, and infrastructure have been signed between the two countries.

CPA/