The Democratic Republic of Congo and Tanzania have agreed to strengthen economic and infrastructure cooperation, with critical minerals, transport connectivity and regional security high on the agenda.
DRC President Felix Tshisekedi and Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan reached the agreement during a meeting in Zanzibar on August 18, according to the Congolese presidency.
The two countries plan to revive their Joint Standing Commission and explore a strategic partnership on critical minerals, including the exchange of geological data. They also agreed to assess opportunities for joint oil and gas projects.
Transport connectivity was another key focus. The two governments committed to improving road links, lake transport and rail connections, with a particular focus on strengthening the Central Corridor through the ports of Dar es Salaam, Kigoma and Kalemie. The leaders also welcomed progress on a cross-border fiber-optic link connecting Kigoma with Kalemie, the capital of Tanganyika Province.
The discussions also covered the security situation in eastern DRC. Tanzania reaffirmed its support for the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity, while the two presidents called for an immediate cessation of hostilities, respect for UN resolutions and the withdrawal of foreign forces from Congolese territory.
The agreements come as Kinshasa seeks to strengthen transport and trade links to the Indian Ocean while expanding regional partnerships around its mineral resources.
