Jean-Claude Van Damme receives Congolese diplomatic passport

On Wednesday, Jean-Claude Van Damme received a diplomatic passport from the Democratic Republic of Congo in Kinshasa. Several media reported this. The Belgian actor is now ambassador for culture, youth and biodiversity for the African country.

The title is said to be more than symbolic. The Congolese authorities have given Van Damme the task of promoting Congo abroad and attracting investors, particularly in the area of agriculture. He will also strive to use his fame to protect the Congolese forests and the local fauna and flora. Congo also wants to position itself as a country that puts climate at the centre of its concerns.

Upon accepting the diplomatic passport, Van Damme said he would convince international celebrities such as Sylvester Stallone, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jackie Chan "and many others" that Congo is a safe country. He also referred to celebrities such as Jennifer Lopez, Lionel Messi, Christiano Ronaldo and Ronaldinho.

Van Damme says he is taking on the role of ambassador voluntarily. The Belgian actor already showed earlier that he is close to the government of Félix Tshisekedi. He previously met the president in Congo last year.

(KOR)

Jean-Claude Van Damme at the world launch of the Amazon Prime series "Jean-Claude Van Johnson" in 2017 © Martin BUREAU / AFP