Media Wire Express Correspondent
The governments of the United States and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have initiated discussions on a new agreement involving security cooperation linked to the extraction of critical minerals.
This move comes as the DRC faces security challenges in its eastern region, including the insurgency of the M23 rebels, who are allegedly supported by Rwanda.
According to sources within the DRC government, the proposed agreement could grant U.S. companies preferential access to rare minerals such as cobalt, lithium, tantalum, and uranium, which are essential for technological advancements and renewable energy development. In return, the DRC expects to receive military support, training, equipment, and direct security assistance from the United States.
The discussions also include the possibility of infrastructure projects, such as the construction of a deep-water port on the DRC’s Atlantic coast and the establishment of a strategic mineral reserve. However, no formal agreements have been reached yet, and negotiations are still ongoing.
The U.S. State Department has stated that it is open to exploring cooperation in this sector but is awaiting a comprehensive assessment of issues related to corruption, environmental impact, and labor rights in the DRC’s mining industry. Additionally, the U.S. has been cautious about providing military assistance to the DRC due to human rights concerns.
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Meanwhile, Australia-based AVZ Minerals is engaged in negotiations over its lithium project in Manono, which has been embroiled in an ownership dispute. Reports suggest that KoBold Metals, a U.S.-backed company, may purchase AVZ Minerals’ shares in the project. U.S. Special Envoy Mr. Boulos is participating in the discussions, aiming to secure access to critical minerals for the U.S. while supporting AVZ Minerals in reclaiming its rights to the project.
These developments indicate a strategic shift, with the DRC seeking to expand its international partnerships while the U.S. aims to secure essential minerals and reduce its dependence on China, which holds significant influence in the DRC’s mining sector. However, numerous challenges remain before a formal agreement can be reached.
