DRC Prime Minister Seeks WTO Support for Economic Transformation
Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka is actively engaging in diplomatic efforts in Geneva, Switzerland, as part of her push to address the crisis in eastern DRC and advocate for stronger sanctions against Rwanda for ongoing atrocities.
On the sidelines of the 58th session of the UN Human Rights Council, Prime Minister Suminwa met with World Trade Organization (WTO) Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala to discuss strategies for transforming the Congolese economy and accelerating the country’s development agenda.
“The DRC is at a turning point for its development,” Suminwa stated. “We need greater access to private sector investment, but we must also work on economic diversification and building value chains.
We explored how to achieve this transformation by adhering to key WTO protocols, particularly in fisheries, and enhancing regional trade integration.”
The Prime Minister also emphasized the importance of supporting women and young entrepreneurs, particularly through digitalization to improve their commercial performance.
In response, Okonjo-Iweala reaffirmed the WTO’s commitment to working with the Congolese government to diversify the economy and create jobs by leveraging the country’s vast natural resources.
“The DRC is a resource-rich country with immense potential. Our discussions focused on adding value to its mineral wealth and creating employment opportunities for young people. We are committed to working together to advance the country’s economic development,” she stated.
This collaboration marks a significant step toward strengthening trade, investment, and economic resilience in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
