Sino-Congolese relations: DRC President Felix Tshisekedi met with his Chinese counterpart

The President of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is in Beijing. Felix Tshisekedi met on May 26, 2023 with his counterpart Xi Jinping, as well as Chinese Premier Li Qiang. On the menu, economy and politics and review of the troops under the sun of Tiananmen.

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Democratic Republic of Congo President Felix Tshisekedi and Chinese President Xi Jinping attend a welcoming ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China, May 26, 2023. REUTERS - THOMAS PETER

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With our correspondent in Beijing, Stéphane Lagarde

As with every state visit to China, the cannons, the band and the children of the schools are out. Red carpet in front of the Great Hall of the People for Felix Tshisekedi, welcomed by President Xi Jinping and his wife, Peng Liyuan, in white dress.

Also reviewed of the three corps of the People's Army in blue, green and white uniforms, sabre in the light.

A visit to strengthen economic cooperation between the two countries, China said. To rebalance the relationship, says the Congolese delegation.

>> READ ALSO: DRC: Felix Tshisekedi begins a state visit to China very focused on the economy

Nine ministers are on the trip, on the DRC side: Foreign Affairs, Defense, Finance, Infrastructure, Territorial Planning, Communication, Digital and of course Mines.

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I am counting on these relationships to benefit my country " said Felix Tshisekedi in the preamble of his meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang.

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We will have in the coming years a partnership with an unwavering friendship ", adds the Head of State of the DRC. "A partnership in which China's image among the Congolese population must change," said a member of the delegation. And for that, we must review the famous contract of the century called "Infrastructure against minerals". A new agreement that the Congolese side would like to have signed before the end of this year.

>> READ ALSO: What future for the "contract of the century" between the DRC and China?

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