DRC Proposes Exclusive Minerals Agreement to the United States

The DRC has proposed an exclusive minerals deal to the US, seeking military assistance in return. The partnership aims to provide US companies with privileged access to critical minerals essential for the energy transition while addressing security concerns stemming from internal conflicts. Previous efforts to engage US firms faced challenges, raising questions about the feasibility of this initiative.

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has proposed an exclusive minerals agreement to the United States, seeking a partnership that would provide US companies privileged access to its critical mineral resources and infrastructure projects. In exchange, the DRC is requesting military assistance to address a rebellion allegedly supported by Rwanda, emphasizing the urgent need for security measures to stabilize the region.

President Felix Tshisekedi has directly appealed for a meeting with US President Donald Trump, as outlined in a letter to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The proposed deal aims to enhance US access to essential minerals necessary for the global energy transition, particularly in light of the DRC’s significant mining output, which is currently dominated by Chinese enterprises.

Such a partnership could enable the DRC to broaden its economic alliances and diminish China’s influence in the region. The agreement may include operational control for US firms, exclusive rights for mineral extraction and exportation, participation in strategic infrastructure projects, and the establishment of a joint mineral stockpile.

In return for these economic benefits, the DRC expects the United States to provide military training, equipment, and direct security aid, including access to US military bases for the protection of strategic resources. A business group advocating for US investment in the DRC emphasized the importance of the nation’s mineral wealth for US industrial competitiveness and national security.

The US State Department has indicated a willingness to engage in discussions regarding potential mining partnerships, with the intention of fostering economic growth for both nations. However, previous efforts under the Biden administration to attract US investment in the DRC’s mineral sector faced challenges including concerns about corruption, environmental sustainability, and labor rights.

Moreover, the US has historically shown reluctance to back the DRC’s military, which has been confronted with allegations of human rights violations. Joshua Walker, from New York University’s Center on International Cooperation, pointed out the difficulties involved in renegotiating mining contracts and the uncertainty regarding the current administration’s ability to mobilize US investment.

The letter proposing this arrangement was revealed on the Foreign Agents Registration Act website, dispatched by lobbyist Aaron Poynton on behalf of Pierre Kanda Kalambayi, chair of the Congolese Senate’s Committee on Defence, Security, and Border Protection. Additional correspondence addressed to other key US officials further illustrates the DRC’s pursuit of a minerals-for-security initiative, highlighting the strategic importance of its resources.

As part of its recent endeavors, the DRC initiated a state monopoly in February 2025 to oversee the production and export of artisanal cobalt, further underscoring its aim to control its valuable mineral assets.

In summary, the Democratic Republic of Congo’s proposal to the United States signifies a strategic initiative to secure military assistance while offering exclusive rights to its critical mineral resources. While there is potential for economic collaboration, the success of such a deal remains uncertain, given historical challenges and concerns regarding human rights and environmental issues. The DRC’s drive to shift its alliances away from China towards the US may reshape its geopolitical landscape and enhance economic prospects, contingent upon favorable negotiations and mutual commitment.

Original Source: www.mining-technology.com