Congo’s President Proposes U.S. Partnership for Mineral Rights and Military Support

Félix Tshisekedi, President of the DRC, proposed a deal to the U.S. for access to mineral rights in return for military support against rebels linked to terrorism. The letter to Trump emphasized strategic mineral procurement and requested a security pact to strengthen the Congolese army’s efforts against disruptive rebel forces.

Félix Tshisekedi, the President of the Democratic Republic of Congo, has presented a proposal to the United States, offering access to his nation’s abundant natural resources. In exchange, he seeks assistance in combating powerful rebel groups linked to terrorist organizations such as ISIS. A letter addressed to President Donald Trump outlined these mining opportunities available for the U.S. Sovereign Wealth Fund, established by Trump after resuming office.

In the letter, Tshisekedi stated, “Your election has ushered in the golden age for America.” He emphasized that a partnership with the DRC would provide the U.S. with a strategic advantage by securing critical minerals, including cobalt, lithium, copper, and tantalum. Additionally, he requested a “formal security pact” to enhance the military capabilities of his government in the ongoing fight against destabilizing rebel forces.

The report highlighted the ongoing conflicts involving these rebel groups, particularly in the eastern region of the DRC, which have roots in the aftermath of the Rwandan genocide over thirty years ago. Following the genocide, many Hutu extremists fled into Congo after Tutsi forces, currently led by Rwandan President Paul Kagame, defeated them in 1994.

Rwanda has denied allegations of supporting M23, a rebel group comprising mainly Tutsis, asserting that its primary concern is national security and the protection of ethnic kin in Congo. However, a U.N. panel of experts has indicated that Kagame dispatched around 4,000 troops to assist M23. The report also referred to claims from Rwanda and Uganda regarding attempts to extract natural resources from the DRC.

The DRC is endowed with vital natural resources essential for various sectors, including communications, electric vehicles, defense, and aerospace industries. Strengthening U.S. involvement in the conflict could significantly reduce the influence of Russia and China in the region, which are working to diminish America’s foothold across the African continent.

In summary, President Félix Tshisekedi’s proposal to the United States outlines a mutually beneficial opportunity involving access to the Democratic Republic of Congo’s vast mineral resources in exchange for military support against rebel groups. This potential partnership could reinforce U.S. strategic interests in the region, diminish foreign influence, and support the DRC’s stability amidst historical and ongoing conflicts.

Original Source: www.dailywire.com