Gabon and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) have reached a new milestone in strengthening their bilateral relations following the signing of an agreement granting visa exemptions for holders of diplomatic and service passports.
Concluded during the working and friendly visit of Congolese President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo to Libreville, the visa waiver agreement aims to facilitate travel for public officials and civil servants of both nations, while bolstering official exchanges between Libreville and Kinshasa.
The measure is among three agreements signed following talks between Gabonese President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema and his Congolese counterpart. It reflects the shared determination of both states to inject new momentum into their cooperation and build closer ties between their administrations and institutions.
Beyond facilitating official travel, the visa exemption is expected to streamline contact between Gabonese and Congolese authorities, particularly within the framework of diplomatic and political consultations that are set to be enhanced.
Cooperation set to expand
The two leaders also agreed to establish a joint commission responsible for monitoring and implementing the commitments made. Additionally, a memorandum provides for regular diplomatic and political consultations between the two countries.
Bilateral cooperation is slated to expand across several strategic sectors, including agriculture, infrastructure, transport, energy, mining, health, education, vocational training, digital technologies, and culture.
The first of the three signed agreements covers judicial, environmental, health, and mining sector cooperation, with a particular focus on the local processing of natural resources.
Both heads of state reaffirmed their intent to strengthen collaboration on protecting the Congo Basin, alongside their commitment to regional peace and stability.
This new dynamic comes as part of the celebrations marking the 66th anniversary of Gabon’s independence, which President Tshisekedi attended, highlighting the enduring friendship between Libreville and Kinshasa.
TE/Sf/lb/as/APA