Kinshasa hosts Burundi president for crucial security and cooperation talks

On Monday, June 22, 2026, the Cité de l’Union africaine in Kinshasa welcomed a high-level delegation as Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, President of the Democratic Republic of Congo, held extensive discussions with Mr. Évariste Ndayishimiye, President of the Republic of Burundi and the current Chairperson of the African Union. This significant engagement marked a key moment during President Ndayishimiye’s state visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The two African leaders initially convened for a private tête-à-tête, setting the stage for broader bilateral consultations. These expanded sessions focused on strategies to bolster cooperation between their respective nations across various sectors of mutual interest, underscoring the commitment to enhanced regional governance in Africa.

A primary agenda item during their dialogue was the volatile security landscape in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. President Ndayishimiye affirmed Burundi’s continued support for the FARDC in their ongoing efforts against what has been described as Rwandan military occupation forces in the region.

Further emphasizing joint regional challenges, both parties addressed their collaborative response to the Ebola virus epidemic, specifically the Bundibugyo strain. They stressed the critical necessity of strengthening cross-border surveillance mechanisms to effectively curb the virus’s spread and protect communities.

President Évariste Ndayishimiye’s schedule for Tuesday, June 23, included a visit to the Central African countries’ cultural and artistic center. Following this, he was slated to participate in a vital meeting with members of the Taskforce responsible for coordinating the health response to the resurgence of the Ebola virus disease (Bundibugyo strain), which has particularly affected three provinces in the eastern part of the country.

To conclude this pivotal high-level meeting, a joint press conference featuring both heads of state was anticipated for Tuesday, providing an update on the outcomes of their discussions.