Nausėda and Tshisekedi discuss security and cooperation

Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda discussed bilateral relations, regional security and international cooperation with Democratic Republic of the Congo President Félix Tshisekedi by phone on Wednesday, LRT reported, citing the presidential office.

Nausėda welcomed the recent establishment of diplomatic relations between Lithuania and the DR Congo and said he hoped it would open a new stage in their partnership. He said Lithuania wanted to strengthen political dialogue, develop economic cooperation and foster closer ties between the two countries’ people.

Nausėda described the DR Congo as an important partner for Europe. As Lithuania prepares to hold the rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union, it is ready to help deepen cooperation between the bloc and the DR Congo, including through the Global Gateway initiative, the presidential office said.

He also offered to share Lithuania’s experience in digital innovation, cybersecurity, good governance and skills development, with particular attention to empowering young people and women.

On security in the eastern DR Congo, Nausėda reaffirmed Lithuania’s support for the country’s sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity. He also backed regional and international efforts to reach a lasting political settlement, including the implementation of the Washington agreements.

Nausėda thanked the DR Congo for supporting the principles of the UN Charter and UN General Assembly resolutions on Ukraine. He stressed the importance of international law and respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states.

On September 24 in New York, Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys and DR Congo Foreign Minister Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner signed a communiqué establishing diplomatic relations, BNS reported.