Tanzania Backs DRC Sovereignty As Tshisekedi And Samia Deepen Security Cooperation

Kinshasa, August 18, 2026 - President Felix Tshisekedi and Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan reaffirmed support for the DRC's territorial integrity during talks on August 17-18, strengthening Kinshasa's diplomatic push for the withdrawal of foreign forces and an end to hostilities in the east.

The leaders backed the Washington and Doha peace processes and called for implementation of UN Security Council resolutions. Their joint communique also committed the two countries to deepen defense cooperation and step up action against illicit trafficking in natural resources.

Tshisekedi and Samia also welcomed efforts to neutralize armed groups, especially the FDLR, and noted commitments on disarmament, demobilization, repatriation or reintegration and transitional justice. The position followed a Geneva meeting on August 12-13 where Kinshasa presented a DDR plan, while Kigali has contested the protocol and the Washington framework links FDLR neutralization to Rwandan defensive measures.

The DRC also endorsed Tanzania's bid for a 2029-30 UN Security Council seat, underscoring Kinshasa's effort to anchor its regional diplomacy in African backing as it seeks security guarantees and pressure against external support for armed groups.