DR Congo President Felix Tshisekedi warned that the country will not “auction” its mineral wealth in negotiations with the US, even as he acknowledged Washington’s mediation efforts in the ongoing conflict with M23 rebels. Speaking in New York, Tshisekedi stated that any partnership Kinshasa enters into will focus on developing the DRC’s mining value chain and infrastructure. He praised President Trump’s attempt to broker a June peace deal with Rwanda but stressed that progress depends on Kigali halting its support for the insurgents. The president also revealed that a strategic partnership with China has already been signed, and a similar agreement with the US is under negotiation. While prisoner exchanges with M23 are under discussion, Tshisekedi emphasized that agreements must precede releases, underscoring the fragile and complex nature of efforts to stabilize eastern Congo.
CNBC Africa
