Congo’s President Felix Tshisekedi is open to a collaboration with the U.S. on a minerals-for-security deal that would benefit American companies and bolster Congo’s defense against armed groups, particularly in light of ongoing regional conflicts.
President Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo expressed his willingness to collaborate with the United States on a minerals-for-security arrangement. In an interview with Fox News host Bret Baier, he emphasized that such a partnership would enable Congo to extract and process vital minerals, providing benefits to American companies while simultaneously enhancing Congo’s defense and security.
Tshisekedi noted the potential of the U.S. to utilize pressure or sanctions to address the armed groups threatening stability in the DRC. The Democratic Republic of Congo is abundantly endowed with critical minerals, including cobalt, lithium, and uranium, and currently faces challenges from Rwanda-backed M23 rebels who have occupied parts of eastern Congo this year.
In summary, President Tshisekedi is proactively seeking a partnership with the United States to leverage Congo’s mineral wealth for mutual benefit, focusing on enhancing national security while supporting U.S. industries. This proposed cooperative framework aims to stabilize the region amidst ongoing conflicts.
Original Source: www.mining.com
