Félix Tshisekedi and Xi Jinping Strengthen China-DRC Partnership Ahead of 2024 FOCAC
Félix Tshisekedi met with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing last week, prior to the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).
Their talks centered on strengthening bilateral ties, trade, and diplomatic relations, with a special focus on China’s support for the DRC in the United Nations Security Council.
During the meeting, President Tshisekedi reaffirmed the DRC’s commitment to the one-China policy, recognizing Taiwan as an integral part of Chinese territory.
He expressed gratitude for China’s ongoing support within the UN, especially in maintaining the DRC’s sovereignty and stability in the Great Lakes region.
The dialogue extended to a bilateral working session where both leaders expressed a strong desire to deepen their partnership in key areas such as agriculture, renewable energy, and industrialization. They particularly emphasized the local processing of the DRC’s mineral resources.
Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang confirmed Beijing’s commitment to strengthening the China-Congo partnership, highlighting the mutual benefits for both nations.
After the meeting, President Tshisekedi and his delegation attended a friendship lunch hosted by the Chinese government. This event marked the start of the DRC’s active participation in the 9th edition of FOCAC, which will take place from September 4 to 6, 2024, in Beijing.
The forum, with participation from 54 African states, aims to bolster China-Africa relations by promoting cooperation and friendship.
