Statement on 2023 Democratic Republic of Congo presidential elections

January 11, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement on the results of the presidential election in the Democratic Republic of Congo:

“On behalf of the Government of Canada, I congratulate President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo on his re-election and the people of the Democratic Republic of Congo for a peaceful election, despite the difficulties encountered.

“Canada encourages the Independent National Election Commission to consider the recommendations of the electoral observation missions and to apply the lessons learned from this electoral process to future electoral cycles.

“Canada also encourages all those involved to work constructively, in alignment with human rights, to enable the Congolese people to build a strong and healthy democracy.

“For over 60 years, Canada and the Democratic Republic of Congo have enjoyed a solid bilateral relationship. Today, nearly 35,000 Congolese-Canadians call Canada home, and enrich our country’s culture and diversity with their contributions.

“Canada and the Democratic Republic of Congo are strong partners in the pursuit of peace, security, and stability. Whether bilaterally or in the multilateral sphere, we are contributing to international efforts to promote stability and peace. And through our Feminist International Assistance Policy, Canada is working with partners to help the Democratic Republic of Congo promote gender equality, bolster inclusive governance and child protections, and improve health care, including sexual and reproductive health and rights.

“The Government of Canada looks forward to continuing to work with President Tshisekedi to further collaboration and strengthening ties between our two countries. As partners in international organizations, including the United Nations, the World Trade Organization and La Francophonie, Canada and the Democratic Republic of Congo will continue to work together to bolster trade, create opportunities and economic growth and address the greatest challenges of our time, such as fighting climate change and promoting peace in the face of global instability.”