Turkish Ambassador Highlights Growing Economic and Strategic Ties with the DRC
Turkey Projects $200 Million Trade with DRC in 2025, Targets $500 Million in Medium Term
The Ambassador of the Republic of Turkey to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Murat Ülkü, praised the steady progress in economic and trade relations between the two countries on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, during a ceremony marking the 102nd anniversary of the founding of the Republic of Turkey.
Ambassador Ülkü projected that bilateral trade between Turkey and the DRC would surpass USD 200 million this year, adding that both nations are working toward a medium-term strategic goal of USD 500 million in trade volume.
“Turkey and the DRC enjoy excellent relations characterized by strong friendship and genuine solidarity between our governments and our peoples,” Ülkü said. “Thanks to the visionary and determined leadership of President Erdoğan and President Tshisekedi, our partnership is deepening at a steady pace. We expect trade to exceed $200 million this year and will continue to work closely to reach our $500 million goal.”
The ambassador welcomed the growing interest of Turkish companies in the DRC’s vast economic potential, highlighting several key infrastructure projects, including the nearly completed Financial Center and Arena in Kinshasa, as well as the new Luano International Airport in Lubumbashi, which will soon be constructed by a Turkish firm.
“We believe that in the future, the Turkish private sector will be further encouraged by improving security conditions and a better business climate in the DRC,” he added.
In the area of security and defense, Ülkü noted that joint efforts between the two countries were already yielding tangible results, particularly in the defense industry.
“The official visits exchanged with the DRC this year will be followed by an evaluation and coordination meeting in Ankara in the coming months,” he said. “All these efforts aim to support the peace and stability necessary for the DRC’s economic growth and social progress.”
The Turkish ambassador also highlighted the growing closeness between the Turkish and Congolese peoples, reflected in increased travel for business, tourism, and medical care.
“I am pleased to see many Congolese friends traveling to Turkey not only for business but also for tourism and healthcare,” Ülkü said. “The bridge of friendship created by Turkish Airlines, the Maarif School in Kinshasa, and the growing number of Congolese students in Turkey plays a key role in strengthening our ties. Ultimately, the success of our cooperation depends on the strong sense of affinity that exists between our two nations.”
