DRC leader arrives in Luanda for global peace initiative

Félix Tshisekedi joins high-level summit in Angola amid global security challenges

The President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, arrived in Luanda on Thursday 16 July 2026 at the invitation of his Angolan counterpart, João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço. The visit coincides with the third edition of the ‘Call for Peace’ initiative, a global platform dedicated to ending armed conflicts and reinforcing adherence to international law.

This landmark gathering brings together heads of state, African Union representatives, United Nations officials, religious leaders, academics and young activists. The agenda focuses on peacebuilding, conflict prevention, reconciliation and the creation of lasting stability across war-torn regions.

During his participation, the DRC delegation will emphasize that peace must move beyond rhetoric to become tangible, measurable actions. The Congolese government is determined to ensure that international commitments translate into real-world progress on the ground.

Stronger bilateral ties with Angola

On the sidelines of the summit, President Tshisekedi held a bilateral meeting with President Lourenço to discuss ways to deepen cooperation between their nations. A key topic was the security situation in eastern DRC, where persistent instability threatens regional development and civilian safety.

DRC takes UN Security Council helm amid global tensions

Since 1 July 2026, the DRC has held the rotating presidency of the United Nations Security Council. This leadership role comes at a critical juncture, as the world faces an unprecedented surge in geopolitical conflicts and a growing erosion of trust in multilateral institutions.

Luanda summit to spotlight women, youth and sport in peace efforts

The Luanda peace summit, organized by the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) in partnership with the Angolan government, runs from 16 to 17 July 2026. Its mission is twofold: to advance peaceful solutions to global disputes and to highlight how women, young people and sports can serve as catalysts for sustainable peace.