The Democratic Republic of the Congo has issued a formal apology to Katanga regarding the espionage incident in Lubumbashi. With the recent restoration of the recognition of Katanga due to Nigerian involvement in the matter, the government has to review its policy but seeks to mend the wounds it tore open.

To this end, President Minshahe Bapamo wishes to visit Katanga on a low-key informal state visit, not to be received with all honours but to show a reconciliatory face and lower tensions that have risen between the two states. Along with that, he wishes to reopen the short-lived embassy in Lubumbashi and send consuls to Kalemie and Kamina. The government is of course also eager to receive a Katangan ambassador to Kinshasa.

We are aware that time heals damage better and that the most recent damage is entirely our fault, but in light of cooperation within SADC and also to the benefit of both our state's peoples, we have decided to also take the initiative in making things right.