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The 14th Session of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)–Zambia Joint Permanent Commission on Defence and Security has closed in Lubumbashi with both countries renewing their commitment to jointly combat crime along the shared border.
Zambia’s delegation was led by Minister of Defence, Ambrose Lufuma, accompanied by Home Affairs and Internal Security Minister, Jack Mwiimbu.
This is according to a statement issued in Lusaka on Friday.
The statement indicated that the three-day meeting focused on strengthening defence and security cooperation, curbing transnational crime and enhancing stability to support ongoing economic projects.
Lufuma said peace and stability were essential to the success of bilateral trade and regional infrastructure initiatives, noting Zambia had begun exporting beef to the DRC while major projects, including the Lobito Corridor and the Kolwezi–Solwezi road, were progressing.
“Zambia is committed to finding lasting peace and security across the region in order for all economic projects to succeed,” he said.
Read More: DRC–Zambia joint defence commission opens with call to combat transnational crime
Mwiimbu echoed the call for deeper collaboration, urging defence and security agencies from both countries to intensify joint patrols and operations along the border.
Meanwhile, DRC Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Security, Decentralization and Traditional Affairs, Lukoo Bihango Jacquemain Shabani said banditry, terrorism and transnational organised crime remained shared threats that required coordinated action.
“The Joint Permanent Commission is a good avenue for ironing out all security concerns,” Shabani said, thanking DRC President Félix Tshisekedi and President Hakainde Hichilema for strengthening bilateral cooperation.
He added that the DRC continued to face instability in its eastern region and was looking to neighbouring countries and international partners for support in ending the insurgency.
Zambia’s delegation also included Ministry of Defence Permanent Secretary, Maambo Haamaundu, Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security Acting Permanent Secretary Goodson Sinyenga, Zambia National Service Commander Lieutenant General Maliti Solochi, Zambia Correctional Service Commissioner General Frederick Chilukutu and Zambia Police Deputy Inspector General of Police (Administration), Charity Munganga.
The Joint Permanent Commission serves as a platform for the two nations to review and address security challenges, strengthen operational coordination, and reinforce longstanding historical ties.
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