Macron and Tshisekedi Discuss Eastern DRC Crisis and Francophonie Leadership

Paris, February 25, 2026 - French President Emmanuel Macron held talks with DRC President Félix Tshisekedi at the Élysée Palace on Wednesday, focusing on the security and humanitarian situation in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo as well as strengthening bilateral cooperation between Paris and Kinshasa. The meeting comes amid ongoing diplomatic efforts to address the conflict in North and South Kivu, where fighting between armed groups and government forces continues to fuel a severe humanitarian crisis. According to officials from both countries, the two leaders discussed regional peace initiatives and the role of international partners in supporting stability in the Great Lakes region. Macron and Tshisekedi last met on January 23, 2026, during a working visit by the Congolese president to Paris. That meeting also focused on the humanitarian situation in eastern DRC and ways to reinforce political, economic, and security cooperation between the two countries. France recently welcomed Tshisekedi’s agreement to support a ceasefire proposal put forward by Angola, urging all parties involved in the conflict to respect the initiative. Paris has also stressed the need to fully implement the Washington Peace Agreement of December 4, 2025, calling on regional actors to honor their commitments and contribute to the de-escalation of tensions. During their discussions, the two presidents also addressed the Democratic Republic of Congo’s candidacy for the leadership of the International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF). Kinshasa has expressed interest in playing a greater role within the Francophonie, with the organization expected to elect its next Secretary-General at the Francophonie Summit scheduled for November 2026 in Cambodia. Beyond the security situation, the meeting allowed Macron and Tshisekedi to review broader areas of cooperation, reflecting the longstanding partnership between France and the Democratic Republic of Congo, particularly in diplomacy, development, and multilateral engagement. By Jeff Buleli