More information about the Republic of Congo is available on the Republic of Congo Page and from other Department of State publications and other sources listed at the end of this fact sheet.
U.S.- REPUBLIC OF CONGO RELATIONS
The United States established diplomatic relations with the Republic of Congo in 1960, following the country's independence from France. Diplomatic relations were suspended in 1965, then resumed in 1977. In 1992, the Republic of Congo completed a transition to multi-party democracy; the country saw several years of civil conflict during 1997-2003. Due to this, the U.S. Embassy operated out of Kinshasa, DRC from 1997 to 2006. In 2009, a new Embassy compound was built and opened, restoring a full American diplomatic presence in the country.
U.S.- Republic of Congo relations are positive and cooperative. The two countries have worked together on issues such as strengthening regional security, improving the health of Congolese citizens, promoting English language learning, and safeguarding the environment. The United States has supported Congolese democratization efforts, contributing aid to the country's electoral processes and working alongside Congolese civil society and private sector leaders as well as government officials to improve human rights and help build a more stable, secure, democratic, and prosperous Congo.
U.S. Assistance to the Republic of Congo
U.S. foreign assistance to Republic of the Congo is focused on maintaining peace and security, professionalizing the armed forces, and helping prepare those forces to participate in regional peacekeeping missions. Increasing the country’s capability in the area of maritime security (including port management) and training are vital to supporting its ability to prevent conflict and preserve the security it has developed.
Bilateral Economic Relations
The Republic of Congo's economy is based primarily on its petroleum sector, with U.S. companies playing a role in the petroleum production and services sectors. The country's top export to the United States is oil, while imports from the United States include machinery, poultry, optic and medical instruments, and vehicles. The Republic of Congo is eligible for preferential trade benefits under the African Growth and Opportunity Act. The deep-water port in the economic capital of Pointe Noire is International Ship and Port Facility Security certified, making it eligible to receive and send shipments directly with the United States. The two countries have a bilateral investment treaty designed to facilitate and protect foreign investment.
Republic of the Congo's Membership in International Organizations
The Republic of Congo and the United States belong to a number of the same international organizations, including the United Nations, International Monetary Fund, World Bank, and World Trade Organization.
Bilateral Representation
The U.S. Ambassador to Republic of the Congo is Christopher W. Murray; other principal embassy officials are listed in the Department's Key Officers List.
Republic of the Congo maintains an embassy in the United States at 1720 16th St NW Washington, DC 20009 (tel: 202-726-5500).
More information about Republic of the Congo is available from the Department of State and other sources, some of which are listed here:
Department of State Republic of the Congo Page
Department of State Key Officers List
CIA World Factbook Republic of the Congo Page
U.S. Embassy: Republic of the Congo
History of U.S. Relations With Republic of the Congo
Human Rights Reports
International Religious Freedom Reports
Trafficking in Persons Reports
Narcotics Control Reports
Investment Climate Statements
Office of the U.S. Trade Representative Countries Page
U.S. Census Bureau Foreign Trade Statistics
Travel and Business Information
