Ambassador Kana Kananathan, recently met with President Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of the Congo to explore opportunities for strengthening the ties between their respective nations with the Congo leader assuring “unwavering support” for business links between the two countries.

The meeting, which took place on October 19 at the Presidential palace is marked a pivotal moment in the growing relationship between Sri Lanka and DRC Congo, a news release from Kananathan’s office said..

“During the discussions, President Tshisekedi expressed his commitment to enhancing the bilateral relationship between the two nations. Notably, a standout moment emerged when President Tshisekedi conveyed and assured Ambassador Kananathan his unwavering support for Sri Lankan business endeavours seeking to invest in the DRC Congo,” the release said.

Kananathan had previously introduced Sri Lankan companies to the various agencies in Kinshasa, who were looking to invest in the DRC Congo, particularly in sectors such as renewable energy, mining, microfinance, and agriculture.

“The President’s commitment underscores the potential for mutually beneficial economic cooperation and development between Sri Lanka and DRC Congo,” the release said.

Ambassador Kananathan conveyed Sri Lanka’s dedication to supporting the DRC Congo in various ways. He emphasized Sri Lanka’s expertise in peacekeeping missions and also offered to assist in training the Congolese armed forces in line with our Défense Diplomacy. This gesture underlines Sri Lanka’s commitment to fostering regional stability and security, it added.

As a symbolic gesture of Sri Lanka’s commitment to the diplomatic relationship, Ambassador Kananathan formally presented his credentials to President Tshisekedi, officially assuming his role as the First Sri Lankan Ambassador to DRC Congo.

Ambassador Kananathan also extended his best wishes and good luck to President Tshisekedi for the forthcoming presidential elections scheduled for December this year.