President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Gabonese leader Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema at Libreville airport © DR

Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, arrived in Libreville on Friday for a working and friendship visit aimed at deepening relations between Gabon and the DRC.

Upon landing, the Congolese leader was greeted by enthusiastic crowds, creating a lively atmosphere as he made his way through the city. This public reception underscored the warmth of the bilateral ties between the two nations.

The visit continued with a solemn moment at the renovated Léon Mba Memorial, where President Tshisekedi laid a wreath in honor of Gabon’s first president and independence figurehead. The tribute included the unveiling of a biography of Léon Mba and the playing of the national anthem in remembrance of the fallen.

This gesture was part of a broader effort to honor leaders who played pivotal roles in Africa’s liberation. The visit concluded with President Tshisekedi signing the memorial’s guestbook.

While the official statement did not detail the discussions, the meeting at the presidential palace on Saturday marked a key milestone in consolidating cooperation between Gabon and the DRC. The two countries, both members of the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), have a long history of diplomatic engagement.