DRC leader invites Burundi counterpart to UN high-level resource summit

Kinshasa, June 24, 2026 — In a bold diplomatic move, Félix Tshisekedi, President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), has extended an invitation to his Burundian counterpart, Évariste Ndayishimiye, to attend a pivotal high-level United Nations Security Council meeting in July 2026. The invitation underscores Tshisekedi’s commitment to fostering stronger African solidarity amid pressing continental challenges.

The upcoming session will focus on the critical intersection of natural resource governance, peacebuilding, and sustainable development—a theme central to the DRC’s strategic priorities and the broader African agenda. Speaking to reporters following a bilateral meeting with Ndayishimiye, who also serves as Chair of the African Union, Tshisekedi emphasized the need for unified African action in addressing security threats, climate pressures, economic disparities, and the aspirations of a youthful population.

Strengthening African unity through shared resources

“Africa stands at a crossroads,” Tshisekedi stated. “We face complex security challenges, persistent humanitarian crises, climate shocks, and the relentless pressures of a globalized economy. Yet, our greatest resource—our people—demands bold leadership and decisive action. It is time for Africa to speak with one voice, act with one purpose, and defend its interests with unwavering resolve.”

The DRC’s presidency of the UN Security Council in July 2026 provides a platform to elevate these priorities. Tshisekedi’s invitation to Ndayishimiye reflects a shared vision among African leaders to transform the continent’s vast natural wealth from a source of conflict into a catalyst for economic sovereignty, industrial transformation, and inclusive prosperity.

“Our natural resources must no longer be exploited for predation or division,” Tshisekedi added. “They should serve as the foundation for peace, development, and shared progress across Africa. I am confident that President Ndayishimiye’s leadership—both as President of the Republic of Burundi and as Chair of the African Union—will bring invaluable insights to this historic dialogue.”

DRC’s UN Security Council presidency: a moment for African leadership

The DRC’s upcoming role in the UN Security Council marks a significant moment in African diplomacy. Following Colombia’s presidency in June and preceding Denmark’s in August, the DRC’s tenure will spotlight the continent’s collective efforts to shape global peace and security agendas. As one of five newly elected non-permanent members for 2026–2027, alongside Bahrain, Colombia, Latvia, and Liberia, the DRC joins a cohort of nations committed to addressing international crises, peacekeeping operations, and sanctions regimes.

For the DRC, the July session represents more than a diplomatic milestone—it is an opportunity to champion African interests on the world stage. With vast mineral wealth, including cobalt and copper critical to global supply chains, the country is poised to advocate for fairer resource governance and sustainable development models that prioritize African priorities over foreign exploitation.