Kinshasa, (SONNA) — The Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Federal Republic of Somalia to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, H.E. Ilyas Ali Hassan, officially presented his Letter of Credence to H.E. Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, at a ceremony held at the Palais de la Nation in Kinshasa.
During the ceremony, Ambassador Ilyas expressed his sincere gratitude for the warm welcome and hospitality extended to him and his delegation, as well as for the continued support provided to the Somali community residing in the DRC.
In his remarks, the Ambassador commended President Tshisekedi’s leadership and congratulated the Democratic Republic of the Congo on its election to the United Nations Security Council — a milestone that reflects the DRC’s growing continental and global role, alongside Somalia’s own membership.
Ambassador Ilyas reaffirmed that Somalia highly values its friendship with the Democratic Republic of the Congo and remains committed to strengthening political, economic, and social cooperation within the framework of African solidarity, mutual respect, and the East African Community (EAC).
He proposed the establishment of a Somalia–Congo Business Forum to enhance trade and investment opportunities between the two nations, noting that Somali entrepreneurs have made significant contributions across the EAC region, particularly in Kenya and Tanzania, and are eager to invest in the DRC’s expanding economy.
The Ambassador also discussed the facilitation of business licenses and visa procedures for Somali citizens, emphasizing the importance of easing movement for traders and investors to further promote bilateral trade and economic growth.
Reaffirming Somalia’s principled stance on sovereignty, unity, and non-interference, Ambassador Ilyas expressed Somalia’s strong support for the DRC’s territorial integrity and for the ongoing peace processes being led in Washington and Doha.
In conclusion, Ambassador Ilyas Ali Hassan reaffirmed his personal commitment to advancing Somalia–DRC relations in all areas of mutual interest, reflecting the shared vision of both nations for deeper cooperation, regional integration, and sustainable development.
