U.S. and Democratic Republic of Congo Initiate Talks on Minerals Agreement

The U.S. is in talks with the DRC about a deal for mineral access in exchange for military support. The DRC is rich in cobalt and other minerals, but faces challenges from rebel groups controlling key regions. This agreement could enhance U.S. interests in the region while addressing local conflicts.

The United States and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are currently engaged in “exploratory talks” regarding a potential deal that would enable the U.S. to access crucial minerals from the DRC in exchange for military assistance. This development was reported by the Financial Times late Friday. The talks began following President Felix Tshisekedi’s interview with the New York Times, where he stated that the Trump administration had shown interest in the DRC’s mineral wealth.

The DRC is recognized as one of Africa’s most resource-rich nations, being the largest global producer of cobalt, which represents over 70% of the world’s production. In addition to cobalt, the country harbors significant reserves of gold, copper, tin, lithium, and tantalum. Unfortunately, many mineral-rich regions in eastern DRC are currently under the control of the M23 rebel group, which has been accused of receiving support from Rwanda and illicitly smuggling minerals.

Although the discussions are still in early stages, a potential agreement with the U.S. could lead to military reinforcements for the DRC, aimed at addressing the ongoing conflict. Congolese Senator Pierre Kandi Kalambayi has communicated a proposal to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, suggesting that American companies be granted mining rights in exchange for U.S. aid in training and equipping the Congolese armed forces.

Furthermore, the U.S. views this potential deal as a strategic opportunity to counter Chinese influence within the DRC’s mining sector. A spokesperson from the State Department emphasized, “The DRC has a significant share of the world’s most important minerals needed for advanced technologies. The United States is open to discussing partnerships in this sector that align with the ‘America First’ program of the Trump administration.”

In summary, the U.S. and the DRC are in early discussions regarding a potential minerals agreement that would provide U.S. access to critical resources in exchange for military support. This deal could help address conflicts driven by local rebel groups while simultaneously allowing the U.S. to enhance its influence in Central Africa’s resource sector, particularly against competing nations such as China.

Original Source: www.mining.com