EU Relations with Republic of Congo

The Republic of Congo has been politically stable since 2002, although the situation is fragile, in particular in the Pool region. All the institutions accounted for by the constitution of 20 January 2002 have been established, but they face operational difficulties because of continued problems with political governance. Parliament is too weak to exercise any control over the executive. The legal system has weaknesses owing to a lack of human and material resources.

There has been strong economic growth in recent years, with an improvement in the terms of trade driven by the rise in global oil prices (petrol exports account for most of the country’s export earnings). In March 2006, the country qualified for debt relief after reaching an initial agreement under the HIPC (Heavily Indebted Poor Countries) initiative. Transport and social infrastructure has deteriorated, holding back the development of the non-petroleum sector of the economy.

The only sectoral policy that has so far been adopted by the government and parliament is the National Transport Plan. In January 2008, the government approved a poverty reduction strategy document, which will be used as a framework for the assistance provided by the country’s development partners.

Key issues in EU-Congo Brazzaville relations

The new EU-Republic of Congo development strategy was signed in January 2008. The National Indicative Programme for the period 2008-2013 provides € 85 M and focuses on two main areas:

• Regional integration with two elements: transport infrastructure and economic diversification, both within the framework of the EU-Central Africa partnership agreement.
• The governance of public finances, of the economy and of trade, with a view to implementing the poverty reduction strategy to help the country to complete the HIPC agreement, thus fostering a better economic climate. This area also includes institutional support in transport and the forestry sector.

The cooperation strategy will also cover two sectors outside of the main focus areas, which are healthcare and the rule of law. This strategy will be implemented using a project-based approach, as the country is not eligible for budgetary aid at this stage.

With the 2009 presidential elections in mind, political dialogue has to be reopened, particularly with regard to economic governance, institutional and electoral issues and human rights.

Latest update: 22-04-2008
Responsible Desk Officers