Congo’s President Tshisekedi expressed willingness to partner with the U.S. on a minerals-for-security deal, allowing Congo to increase its mineral extraction for cooperation with U.S. companies while improving its defense capabilities. He sees potential U.S. influence to help mitigate armed group threats arising in the country.
Democratic Republic of Congo’s President Felix Tshisekedi announced his country’s readiness to collaborate with the United States on a minerals-for-security arrangement. In an interview with Fox News, Tshisekedi emphasized that this partnership would enable Congo to harness its vital minerals, benefitting U.S. companies while simultaneously enhancing Congo’s defense capabilities.
Tshisekedi highlighted the U.S.’s potential to exert influence, stating, “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.” Congo’s mineral wealth includes significant reserves of cobalt, lithium, and uranium. Amidst this, they are contending with the M23 rebel group, allegedly supported by Rwanda, which has captured regions in eastern Congo this year.
Congo’s initiative to partner with the U.S. for minerals in exchange for security support highlights the interplay between resource management and regional stability. This collaboration could greatly enhance Congo’s mining operations while simultaneously addressing security challenges posed by armed groups. President Tshisekedi’s comments point towards a strategic approach to leverage mineral wealth for national defense improvement.
Original Source: www.mining.com
