KINSHASA, 24 March 2026 (TATOLI) – In demonstration of their shared commitment as members of the g7+ to advancing development and economic growth, Timor-Leste and Congo engaged in a high-level exchange to strengthen financial cooperation and other related key areas.
The meeting was held on Monday, March 23, in Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, between a g7+ delegation led by Secretary-General Helder da Costa and Congo’s Vice Minister of Finance, Gracia Yamba Kazadi.
The exchange provided an opportunity for both parties to explore collaboration in peer learning and knowledge exchange in areas such as sustainable finance and natural resource management.
During the meeting, the g7+ Secretariat highlighted the important role of the Democratic Republic of the Congo as a founding member and current Vice-Chair of the g7+. In this capacity, the country plays a key role in advancing the collective interests of conflict-affected states, particularly in shaping discussions on economic governance and development cooperation at the international level.
The discussions also focused on enhancing collaboration between the g7+ and the Ministry of Finance, including through the Rapid Response Advisory Centre.
The initiative is designed to provide timely and practical technical support to member states, particularly in areas such as public finance management, economic planning, and complex negotiations with international partners.
The Vice-Minister of Finance welcomed the initiative and emphasized the importance of access to rapid, high-quality expertise to support informed financial decision-making.
Both parties agreed to enhance coordination through the designation of dedicated focal points within the Ministry of Finance and the g7+ Secretariat. These focal points will facilitate regular communication, ensure timely follow-up, and support the effective delivery of advisory services when needed.
The meeting also discussed the importance of advancing the ratification of the g7+ Charter and strengthening the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s engagement in upcoming g7+ initiatives, including high-level meetings and collaborative platforms among member states.
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
