DRC Signs New Trade & Cooperation Deals Across Latin America

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has completed a landmark interministerial diplomatic tour across Latin America, securing a series of bilateral cooperation agreements with Uruguay, Argentina, and Brazil. Led by Foreign Affairs Minister Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, the high-level delegation opened a new chapter of South-South engagement focused on trade, defense, culture, and strategic diplomacy.

Uruguay: First Harvest of Agreements

In Montevideo, the Congolese delegation signed several pivotal agreements:

• General Cooperation Agreement – establishing a broad diplomatic framework

• Defense Cooperation – signed with Minister Sandra Lazo

• Cultural Exchange Deal – with Acting Minister Gabriela Verde

These agreements mark the beginning of deeper relations based on shared values and development goals.

Argentina: Reawakening a Dormant Alliance

In Buenos Aires on August 8, discussions resumed after over 40 years of stagnant relations. Key talks with Argentina’s Foreign Minister Gerardo Werthein focused on:

• DRC’s election to the UN Security Council

• Support for a Global South candidate for the next UN Secretary-General

• Opportunities in agriculture, biotechnology, and food innovation

Minister Wagner was joined by Julien Paluku (Trade) and Yolande Elebe (Culture) for cultural visits and engagements, including a historic stop at Teatro Colón and meetings with Congolese diplomats.

Brazil: Trade & Cooperation Momentum

The final leg of the tour brought the delegation to Brasília. Key outcomes include:

• Visa Waiver Agreement for diplomatic and service passports

• Plans for an updated bilateral trade agreement (replacing the outdated 1973 deal)

• Upcoming Brazilian trade mission to Kinshasa

• Support for DRC’s integration with MERCOSUR

Discussions between Minister Wagner and Brazil’s Mauro Vieira also outlined future collaborations in agriculture, education, health access, and environmental diplomacy.

More Than Diplomacy – A National Strategy

This tour wasn't just ceremonial. The DRC:

• Secured defense, culture, and humanitarian cooperation pledges

• Backed Brazil’s international candidacies

• Reaffirmed DRC's strategic ambitions as a leader in the Global South

Connecting With the Diaspora

To wrap up the mission, Minister Wagner met with the Congolese community in Brazil on August 12, sharing insights on national progress and encouraging diaspora engagement in the DRC’s development.