Kinshasa Calls for Results-Oriented Security Partnership

Paris, April 17, 2026 - The Democratic Republic of Congo has called for a more “demanding” and results-driven security partnership with France, as both countries seek to strengthen military cooperation amid ongoing instability in eastern DRC. The appeal was made during talks on April 16 between Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense and Veterans Affairs Guy Kabombo Muadiamvita and French Minister of the Armed Forces Catherine Vautrin at the French Ministry of Defense. According to Congolese authorities, the meeting focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation in defense and military training, with both sides reviewing strategic areas of collaboration alongside technical experts. Discussions also addressed ongoing reforms aimed at transforming the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) into a more professional and effective force capable of addressing current security threats. Congolese officials emphasized the need to modernize existing cooperation frameworks, including longstanding agreements between the two countries, while adapting them to present-day security challenges. Against the backdrop of continued violence in eastern DRC-linked to the AFC/M23 rebellion, the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), and other armed groups-Kinshasa called for a partnership centered on concrete outcomes. Authorities highlighted priorities such as specialized training, institutional reform support, doctrinal guidance, and enhanced operational capacity. French authorities reiterated their commitment to supporting the professionalization of the FARDC and broader peace and stabilization efforts in the Great Lakes region. The discussions took place on the sidelines of a high-level forum on maritime security involving partners from the Gulf of Guinea. As part of efforts to deepen cooperation, the Congolese government also announced plans to deploy a defense attaché to Paris in the coming days to facilitate coordination between the two countries. France and the DRC maintain longstanding defense ties, including training programs and institutional support initiatives. French military cooperation has notably contributed to training structures in the DRC, including advanced officer education programs involving both national and international participants.