Fifteen people deported from the US, who are reportedly from South America, have arrived in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
This marks the first group of what could be several deportees that the US has agreed to expel, with the DRC government emphasizing that their presence is only temporary. Washington is reportedly funding their reception, support, and care during their time in the country.
The US has previously dispatched deportees to various African nations, including Ghana, South Sudan, and Eswatini, as part of its strict immigration enforcement measures. The Congolese government noted that receiving what they refer to as third-country migrants aligns with their commitment to human dignity and the protection of migrant rights.
While the DRC stresses that this scheme is not meant to serve as a permanent relocation solution or an outsourcing of immigration policies, it reflects ongoing efforts to address global immigration dynamics.
The US State Department has not explicitly commented on this specific deportation agreement but maintains its broader goal of combatting illegal immigration and enhancing border security.
As part of its tough immigration stance, the US has deported numerous individuals to third countries since the Trump administration took office, investing substantial resources into these operations.
Reports indicate that most of the deportees arriving in Kinshasa were Colombian and Peruvian nationals. The Congolese authorities have issued short-stay permits for these individuals, without disclosing detailed information about them.
Additionally, the US is also in discussions for a minerals deal with the DRC to access vital resources such as cobalt and lithium while pursuing diplomatic efforts to foster peace between the DRC and Rwanda amidst ongoing conflicts in the region.
