KINSHASA, DR Congo
The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo has denied reports that it has signed a military co-operation agreement with Russia.
"There is, to date, no
military co-operation agreement signed recently between Russia and the
Democratic Republic of Congo," the ministry of communication and
media said in a statement on Thursday.
The denial follows an
article published by Russian state-owned news agency TASS on Tuesday,
which said that Russia’s government had approved a draft military co-operation
agreement with DR Congo.
TASS, citing a government
document, reported that the agreement entailed joint drills and exercises,
military training and "visits by warships and warplanes at an invitation
or request".
DR Congo says the draft
agreement in question was initiated by the two countries in 1999, but is yet to
be signed.
"Currently, there is no
bilateral discussion between the two parties for the effective implementation
of this draft agreement. Under current conditions, the Democratic Republic of
Congo is not considering any either," the communications ministry added.
Russia has been boosting its
military deals with African countries as it seeks to extend its political
influence on the continent.
Through the Wagner mercenary
group, Russia has been providing military assistance to the Central African
Republic and the junta-led governments of Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso.
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