The United States has expressed a willingness to explore critical mineral partnerships with the Democratic Republic of Congo.
This comes as a Congolese senator pitched a minerals-for-security deal to U.S. officials.
The DRC, rich in cobalt, lithium, and uranium, faces ongoing conflict with Rwanda-backed M23 rebels, heightening its need for stability.
A State Department spokesperson confirmed the U.S. is open to discussions on partnerships aligned with its strategic interests.
The statement acknowledged the DRC’s significant role in supplying minerals vital for advanced technologies.
Efforts to boost U.S. private sector investment in the DRC, emphasizing responsible and transparent mining practices, are underway.
Congolese officials have indicated a desire to diversify partnerships, with “daily exchanges” occurring between Kinshasa and Washington.
Government spokesman Patrick Muyaya highlighted the openness to American investment in the DRC’s abundant mineral reserves.
Andre Wameso, a presidential deputy chief of staff, recently traveled to Washington for partnership talks.