The Democratic Republic of Congo is racing to seal a major deal with the US by June’s end, offering access to its rich mineral deposits in exchange for infrastructure investment and support in ending the Rwandan-backed M23 rebellion. The proposed agreement would grant US firms entry into cobalt, coltan, and lithium mines, challenging China’s long-standing dominance in the sector. Talks also aim to foster regional peace, but Kinshasa insists that the M23 rebels and allied Rwandan troops must first withdraw from occupied territories in the country’s eastern region. If this impasse is overcome and all sides reach an agreement, the deal could also outline terms for cooperation between the DRC and its neighbors, including Rwanda, in the export and processing of minerals.
Financial Times
