At the first Ministerial Conference of the Partnership Forum Russia-AfricaRussia has taken a new step in its expansion in Africa by signing a political consultation agreement with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This agreement, signed by the Congolese Minister of Foreign Affairs Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner and the Russian minister Sergey Lavrovmarks the start of strengthened cooperation between Moscow et Kinshasa on subjects of common interest, such as security and international diplomacy.
The partnership between the DRC and Russia is structured in a context where Moscow strives to solidify its presence in Africa. By moving closer to Kinshasa, a strategic player in Central Africa, Russia seeks to expand its diplomatic and economic network, extending an influence already marked in Mali, Burkina Fasoin the Central African Republic and Sudan. Through this agreement, Moscow could take advantage of the DRC’s natural resources and strategic access routes, while developing partnerships in security and defense, areas where Russia has coveted expertise.
The strengthening of Russian-Congolese cooperation follows several significant diplomatic steps. In July 2023, a first agreement already facilitated the free movement of holders of diplomatic passports between the two countries. This new consultation pact aims to align the positions of the two nations on strategic issues, thus strengthening their abilities to collaborate on the international stage.
Russia’s proactive approach in Africa is part of a strategy aimed at counterbalancing the influence of Western powers on the continent. The Russia-Africa Forum, designed to establish closer cooperation with African countries, appears to be a vector of political and economic influence for the Kremlin, which is increasing bilateral partnerships and agreements in strategic sectors. As Russia consolidates its alliances, agreements like the one signed with the DRC show its desire to position itself as a major partner for the development and security of African countries, in direct competition with Western interests.
This agreement between the DRC and Russia thus illustrates Moscow’s ambition to establish itself further in Africa, banking on bilateral partnerships and diplomacy oriented towards mutual gains. With initiatives like these, Russia is giving itself the means to become an influential player on a rapidly changing continent, while consolidating strategic relations with key nations in sub-Saharan Africa.
Belgium
