The United States and the European Commission have reaffirmed their commitment to advancing peace, security and economic development in Africa’s Great Lakes region, outlining renewed support for the Lobito Corridor, a major infrastructure project linking the DR Congo to Angola’s Atlantic coast.
The joint declaration, released on December 4 by the Office of the Spokesperson, Tammy Bruce, emphasized the significance of the project in strengthening regional stability.
“The Government of the United States and the European Commission reaffirm our shared commitment to promoting peace, security, and economic growth in the Great Lakes region of Africa,” the statement said.
Describing the Lobito Corridor as a “transformative infrastructure project,” the statement noted its importance in improving connectivity, supporting transparent critical mineral supply chains, and creating long-term economic opportunities.
“Central to this effort is the Lobito Corridor, a transformative infrastructure project that will enhance regional connectivity, secure critical mineral supply chains, and drive sustainable economic growth,” it said.
The corridor would provide the DR Congo with a modernized route to the port of Lobito, significantly expanding potential trade flows between Central Africa, the United States and Europe.
According to the statement, the U.S. and EU are working closely with private sector partners and African governments to rehabilitate and upgrade infrastructure along the route.
“We are working closely with private sector leaders and African partners to rehabilitate and modernize the Lobito Corridor, ensuring its success as a catalyst for regional development,” it said.
The statement also acknowledged recent private sector discussions with the DR Congo government regarding investment in the Congolese section of the corridor.
The U.S. and EU said they are prepared to explore financing options that complement the rehabilitation already under way in Angola. “We stand ready to discuss possible ways to finance proposals that would ensure synchronicity with the ongoing rehabilitation on the Angolan side of the Corridor,” the statement noted.
Tammy Bruce’s office underscored that Washington and Brussels intend to remain tightly coordinated as the project moves forward.
“We declare our intention to remain fully aligned and coordinated to support the Corridor’s success, which will secure more transparent supply chains and sustained investment from the region,” the joint statement said.