DRC and UAE Forge Stronger Economic and Strategic Ties
DRC and UAE Deepen Strategic and Economic Partnership: Key Agreements on Trade, Mining, Infrastructure, and Security
The President of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, received His Highness Sheikh Shakhboot Nahyan Al Nahyan, Minister of State and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates, on Sunday, November 16, 2025, at the African Union City. The meeting focused on advancing the economic and strategic partnership between the two nations.
Held first behind closed doors before expanding to include both delegations, the discussions covered major issues at the core of bilateral cooperation.
Boosting Economic Cooperation
Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening collaboration in the mining sector—a strategic priority for the DRC and an area of strong interest for Emirati investors.
They also addressed cooperation in combating money laundering, economic crime, and terrorist financing. A new mechanism for financial information exchange between the two countries is under consideration to support this effort.
A potential technical partnership between the Central Bank of the UAE and the Central Bank of Congo was also discussed to reinforce institutional capacities.
Advancing Trade Relations
Bilateral trade was a central topic, with delegations reviewing the draft free trade agreement expected to be finalized before year’s end.
The UAE noted that trade volumes between the two countries increased by 27% from 2023 to 2025, confirming a solid upward trajectory. To sustain this momentum, a UAE–DRC Economic Forum will soon be organized to showcase priority Congolese projects and attract new investment.
Infrastructure and Logistics Development
The meeting also advanced discussions on major infrastructure projects. The Emirati Minister confirmed the UAE’s readiness to invest in the Lobito Corridor, with the Abu Dhabi Ports Group planning:
Construction of two dry ports
Development of two key road links: one from Kolwezi to Dilolo, and another crossing Angola and the DRC to Zambia
The UAE also expressed interest in investing in the ports of Matadi and Boma—critical hubs for Congolese international trade.
Additionally, both sides reviewed progress on the ratification of an air services agreement aimed at improving connectivity and facilitating commerce.
Institutional and Diplomatic Cooperation
The two countries explored academic collaboration between the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy and the Congolese Diplomatic Academy. The UAE also signaled potential support for administrative modernization and governance reforms in the DRC.
