President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo of the Democratic Republic of Congo (RDC) undertook a working visit to Brazzaville on July 3.
The head of state arrived aboard the Majestic River, a vessel flying the RDC flag, navigating across the Pool Malebo before being greeted at Brazzaville’s Beach by Congolese Prime Minister Anatole Collinet Makosso.
This visit underscores the ongoing dialogue between Presidents Denis Sassou N’Guesso and Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi, both committed to strengthening bilateral cooperation and expediting the implementation of high-impact economic integration projects.
Central to their discussions was the proposed Brazzaville-Kinshasa road-rail bridge, recognized as one of the most transformative infrastructure endeavors in the sub-region. This vital link will connect the world’s two closest capital cities, significantly enhancing the movement of people and goods while bolstering commercial exchanges within the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The two leaders also reaffirmed their dedication to solidifying their partnership in the energy sector. Their focus includes the ‘Boucle de l’amitié énergétique’ (Energy Friendship Loop), a visionary project designed to interconnect the sub-region’s electrical grids, thereby improving power supply and fostering economic development.
To this end, an agreement was formally signed to guide the implementation of this energy interconnection. It specifically outlines the development of a colossal hydroelectric dam project on the Likouala aux Herbes river, projected to have an installed capacity of 12,900 megawatts. This ambitious undertaking, jointly championed by Congo, the RDC, and Angola, aims to position Central Africa as a significant hub for energy production.
Beyond economic considerations, Presidents Denis Sassou N’Guesso and Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi continued their consultations on pressing security challenges and stability issues across the Great Lakes region and Central Africa. Both leaders reiterated their unwavering commitment to dialogue and enhanced cooperation as essential pillars for safeguarding peace, which is indispensable for the progress of both nations and the broader sub-region.
