KINSHASA, 24 March 2026 (TATOLI) – The g7+ Secretary-General Helder da Costa held a high-level meeting in Kinshasa on Monday with Noëlla Ayeganagato Nakwipone, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
During the meeting, the g7+ Secretariat introduced the organization and underscored the pivotal role of the Democratic Republic of the Congo as a founding member and current Vice-Chair of the g7+. In this capacity, the DRC plays a key role in ensuring that the perspectives of conflict-affected countries are effectively represented in global discussions, including at the United Nations Security Council.
Discussions focused on identifying concrete areas of collaboration, including support through the g7+ Rapid Response Advisory Centre and broader peacebuilding and statebuilding initiatives. The Vice-Minister welcomed the initiative, noting that timely access to expert advisory support would strengthen the country’s capacity to engage in international negotiations, manage crises, and coordinate on regional and global priorities.
Both parties agreed on the importance of strengthening institutional coordination through the designation of dedicated focal points within the Ministry and the g7+ Secretariat. This will facilitate regular communication, effective follow-up, and collaboration on key priorities, including the ratification of the g7+ Charter and participation in upcoming g7+ engagements.
The Vice-Minister also shared insights on the humanitarian and security situation in the eastern part of the country, highlighting the importance of leveraging the g7+ platform to amplify the voice and advocacy of conflict-affected states at the international level.
Also in attendance were Apollinaire Langba Mbongi, Secretary-General for Foreign Affairs of Congo, and g7+ Chief Operating Officer Felix Piedade, and Media and Communications Manager Helche Silvester.
Journalist: Digna Serrão
Editor: Filomeno Martins
