Erdogan discusses security with Rwanda, DR Congo leaders

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Thursday held separate telephone conversations with Democratic Republic of Congo President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame to discuss bilateral cooperation and regional security issues, according to Türkiye’s Communications Directorate. The calls focused on enhancing ties and addressing the security situation in the Great Lakes region.

Cooperation with Kinshasa

During his call with Tshisekedi, Erdogan said Ankara would continue taking steps to enhance cooperation with the Democratic Republic of Congo in investment, trade, defense and security, the directorate stated. He expressed Türkiye’s support for peace processes aimed at achieving a lasting resolution to the security situation in eastern Congo, adding that the country stood ready to make “necessary contributions toward creating a constructive environment for the implementation of existing agreements.”

Progress with Kigali

In his conversation with Kagame, Erdogan noted that positive progress had been made in trade and investment between Ankara and Kigali, according to the same source. He added that Türkiye would continue working with Rwanda in various fields, particularly the defense industry, and welcomed efforts to ease tensions between the two neighboring countries.

Regional tensions

Erdogan reaffirmed Ankara’s support for the continuation of a constructive approach between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The calls took place as regional actors seek to stabilize eastern Congo and implement existing peace frameworks to end the prolonged conflict affecting the border region.