Astana, Sept. 10, 2025 – Relations between Central Asia and Africa entered a new era as President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) made his first state visit to Kazakhstan. The trip marked a turning point in bilateral ties, with both nations reaffirming their shared vision for sovereignty, peace, and global cooperation.

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev welcomed his Congolese counterpart with full honors, calling the visit “a new chapter” in the partnership between the two regions. He emphasized that Kazakhstan sees significant potential in collaborating with the Democratic Republic of the Congo, a country of over 110 million people and home to some of the world’s most critical mineral reserves.

“Kazakhstan is interested in deepening cooperation with the DRC in various areas. We are united by political will, economic potential, and common goals in culture and peace,” President Tokayev said.

The talks focused on trade, mining, agriculture, IT, and digitalization. Tokayev praised the DRC’s role in global supply chains, noting its 76% share of world cobalt production and strong copper reserves — key for high-tech industries. He also highlighted the success of Kazakhstan’s Eurasian Resources Group (ERG), which operates in the Congolese mining sector with the support of the government.

President Tshisekedi, in return, expressed gratitude for Kazakhstan’s solidarity during Congo’s hardest moments and praised its leadership in peace and nuclear disarmament.

“DRC will never forget Kazakhstan’s support at the UN. Your decision to renounce nuclear weapons inspires us,” Tshisekedi said.

The visit concluded with a joint statement, new intergovernmental agreements on mining and diplomacy, and a symbolic gesture — Tokayev awarding Tshisekedi the Order of Dostyk (Friendship) for his role in strengthening ties and promoting global stability.

This state visit sets the stage for a future-oriented partnership between Congo and Kazakhstan, reinforcing Congo’s role not only in Africa but also in global diplomacy.