DRC president invites Burundi counterpart to key UN security council meeting
The President of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Félix Tshisekedi, has extended an invitation to his Burundian counterpart, Évariste Ndayishimiye, to participate in a high-level meeting at the United Nations Security Council. The invitation comes during a critical moment for African diplomacy, as the DRC prepares to assume the presidency of the Security Council in July 2026.
The meeting, scheduled to take place in the United States, will focus on the strategic link between natural resources, peace, security, and sustainable development across the African continent. Speaking to the press following bilateral talks in Kinshasa, President Tshisekedi emphasized the urgent need for African nations to unite in addressing pressing challenges, including climate change, economic pressures, and persistent security threats.
Addressing Africa’s challenges through unity and solidarity
During the joint press conference, President Tshisekedi underscored the importance of coherence and solidarity among African nations in defending the continent’s interests on the global stage. He highlighted the critical role of natural resources, not just as a source of wealth but as a potential driver of peace and sustainable development if managed responsibly.
“Africa stands at a pivotal juncture,” Tshisekedi stated. “Our continent faces complex security challenges, ongoing humanitarian crises, the devastating impacts of climate change, and immense pressure from global economic forces. Yet, the aspirations of our youth remain our greatest hope. To meet these challenges, Africa must speak with one voice, act with unwavering solidarity, and defend its strategic interests with determination.”
The high-level meeting, which Tshisekedi will preside over, aims to foster deeper discussions on transforming Africa’s natural resources from a source of conflict and predation into a catalyst for peace, economic sovereignty, industrial transformation, and shared prosperity. The DRC’s presidency of the Security Council presents a unique opportunity to elevate these discussions on the global stage.
President Ndayishimiye, who currently serves as Chair of the African Union, brings valuable regional leadership to the table. His participation is expected to enrich the dialogue and contribute to shaping policies that prioritize Africa’s long-term stability and development.
A historic moment for African diplomacy
The DRC’s upcoming presidency of the UN Security Council marks a historic moment for African diplomacy. As one of five newly elected non-permanent members for the 2026-2027 term—alongside Bahrain, Colombia, Latvia, and Liberia—the DRC will play a pivotal role in shaping the council’s agenda during its tenure.
This presidency follows Colombia’s term in June and precedes Denmark’s in August, aligning with the alphabetical rotation of the council’s non-permanent members. The DRC’s leadership comes at a time when Africa’s voice at the UN is increasingly vital in addressing global security and development challenges.
President Tshisekedi’s invitation to President Ndayishimiye reflects a broader commitment to strengthening African unity and ensuring that the continent’s interests are effectively represented in international forums. The meeting is poised to set a precedent for future collaborations aimed at harnessing Africa’s vast natural resources for sustainable and inclusive growth.
- Politics
