Democratic Republic of Congo’s President Félix Tshisekedi expressed willingness to collaborate with the U.S. on a minerals-for-security deal, enhancing local capacities while aiding U.S. companies. The plan comes amid ongoing conflicts with M23 rebels in eastern Congo, which Tshisekedi believes the U.S. can help mitigate through pressure or sanctions.
President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo expressed on Wednesday his nation’s readiness to collaborate with the United States on a minerals-for-security arrangement. In an interview with Fox News host Bret Baier, Tshisekedi explained that this partnership would facilitate the extraction and processing of essential minerals in Congo, benefiting American companies while simultaneously enhancing the military and security capabilities of the Congolese government.
The Democratic Republic of Congo is rich in valuable minerals, including cobalt, lithium, and uranium, yet faces severe challenges, notably the threat posed by Rwanda-backed M23 rebels. These rebels have captured significant areas in eastern Congo this year, complicating the nation’s stability and security efforts. Tshisekedi remarked, “I think that the U.S. is able to use either pressure or sanctions to make sure that armed groups who are in the DRC can be kept at bay.”
In summary, President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo is keen to establish a partnership with the U.S. that focuses on mineral extraction for enhancing national security. This initiative aims to support U.S. enterprises while countering armed groups within Congo, predominantly the M23 rebels. Such collaboration could bolster both nations’ interests in the mineral-rich region.
Original Source: www.mining.com
