French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot visited the Democratic Republic of Congo on October 2, 2026, to discuss cooperation between the two countries, including the response to the Ebola outbreak. He met with President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi in Kinshasa, where they discussed various issues, including the situation in the east of the country and the Ebola response. The meeting was attended by several Congolese government officials, including Health Minister Roger Kamba and Deputy Foreign Minister Noëlla Ayeganagato.
Barrot expressed his country's commitment to supporting the Congolese government's efforts to combat Ebola. He highlighted the long-standing and extensive relations between France and the DR Congo, describing the ties between the two nations as "very lively and very important". The French government has pledged to support the Ebola response efforts, which is part of a broader cooperation between the two countries covering areas such as health, security, and protection of victims.
After his meeting with President Tshisekedi, Barrot traveled to Bunia, the capital of the Ituri province, to assess the Ebola response efforts on the ground. He visited areas affected by the outbreak and met with local authorities and health workers. The trip aimed to demonstrate France's solidarity with the Congolese people and to support the efforts of healthcare workers and humanitarian organizations fighting the epidemic.
The Ebola outbreak in the DR Congo has resulted in over 4,000 deaths, according to recent reports. The situation remains a major public health concern, with efforts underway to contain the outbreak and provide support to affected communities. The French government's support for the Ebola response is part of a broader commitment to improving healthcare and responding to humanitarian crises in the region.
In addition to supporting the Ebola response, Barrot's visit also focused on promoting justice and reparations for victims of violence in the DR Congo. He discussed the implementation of a protocol aimed at combating impunity and providing reparations for victims of sexual violence related to conflicts. The French government has pledged to work closely with the Congolese authorities to support the documentation of human rights abuses and to bring perpetrators to justice.
The visit by Barrot reflects the ongoing cooperation between France and the DR Congo on various issues, including health, security, and human rights. The two countries have a long history of diplomatic relations, and France has pledged to continue supporting the DR Congo in its efforts to promote stability, security, and economic development.
The DR Congo continues to face significant challenges, including the Ebola outbreak, insecurity in the east, and humanitarian needs. The government's efforts to address these challenges are ongoing, with support from international partners such as France. The situation remains closely monitored, with efforts underway to respond to emerging crises and promote long-term stability and development.
Key points
- France has pledged to support the DR Congo's Ebola response efforts.
- The outbreak has resulted in over 4,000 deaths.
- France and the DR Congo are cooperating on issues including health, security, and human rights.
