The week of 22 to 28 September 2024 was marked by intense diplomatic activity for President Félix Tshisekedi, dominated by his participation in the 79th General Assembly of the United Nations in New York. At the heart of this international meeting, the Congolese head of state took the opportunity to defend the interests of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), particularly in terms of security, development and international cooperation. On the sidelines of this event, Félix Tshisekedi held a series of bilateral meetings with world leaders and influential figures, seeking support to stabilise the east of his country and strengthen bilateral relations.
A day-by-day review of President Félix Tshisekedi’s activities
22 September 2024 – Arrival in New York for the 79th UN General Assembly
President Félix Tshisekedi has arrived in New York to attend the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly. This visit is part of his diplomatic efforts to draw international attention to security issues in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). As soon as he arrived, he began preparing his speeches and high-level bilateral meetings.
23 September 2024 – Meeting with Bill Gates and participation in the opening of the session
President Tshisekedi took part in the opening session of the 79th UN General Assembly. The day was also marked by a meeting with philanthropist Bill Gates, during which they discussed issues of health, education and sustainable development. These discussions are part of the DRC’s priorities to improve the living conditions of its citizens.
24 September 2024 – Speech at the UN and demand for sanctions against Rwanda
During his speech at the United Nations, President Tshisekedi called for international sanctions against Rwanda, which he accused of supporting armed groups active in the east of the DRC. He demanded the immediate and unconditional withdrawal of Rwandan troops from his country. The speech drew attention to the critical security situation in the region, highlighting the need for international intervention.
25 September 2024 – Bilateral meeting with Aleksandar Vučić and Antonio Guterres
President Tshisekedi continued his diplomatic efforts with a meeting with his Serbian counterpart, Aleksandar Vučić. The two heads of state discussed ways of strengthening bilateral cooperation, particularly in the areas of security and economic development.
He also met UN Secretary-General António Guterres to discuss security in the east of the DRC and global efforts to stabilise the region.
26 September 2024 – Meeting with the Polish President and demand for sanctions
Félix Tshisekedi had a meeting with Polish President Andrzej Duda. They agreed to strengthen cooperation in the fields of digitalisation and security. The meeting illustrated the DRC’s desire to establish strategic partnerships with European nations for technological and security development.
27 September 2024 – Interview with the Belgian Prime Minister
President Tshisekedi met Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo. Belgium, a former colonial power in the DRC, remains a key partner for the country’s economic development and stabilisation. The two leaders discussed bilateral cooperation and current geopolitical issues.
28 September 2024 – Meeting with Faustin-Archange Touadéra of CAR
To round off the week, President Félix Tshisekedi met his counterpart from the Central African Republic (CAR), Faustin-Archange Touadéra. They held a constructive dialogue aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and improving regional security. The meeting was part of Tshisekedi’s wider strategy of consolidating regional alliances to tackle common security challenges.
Conclusion
President Félix Tshisekedi’s week in New York was crucial for Congolese diplomacy. His participation in the 79th UN General Assembly highlighted the security challenges in the east of the DRC, while calling on the international community to take concrete action against Rwanda. Beyond the speeches, his many bilateral meetings with world leaders have strengthened the strategic alliances that are essential to support the development and security of the DRC. President Tshisekedi demonstrated his determination to advocate peace and stability in his country, while actively pursuing his efforts to strengthen international cooperation.
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