Congo Targets U.S. Minerals Deal by End of June Amid Regional Tensions

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is in advanced negotiations with the United States to finalize a significant minerals agreement by the end of June 2025. This prospective deal aims to attract U.S. investment in critical minerals such as cobalt, lithium, and coltan, while also addressing ongoing conflicts in the eastern regions of the DRC, particularly involving the Rwandan-backed M23 rebel group.

Under the proposed agreement, the DRC would grant U.S. companies access to its vast mineral resources in exchange for infrastructure investments and support in resolving regional conflicts. A notable aspect of the deal includes the potential for Congo to export minerals like tungsten, tantalum, and tin to Rwanda for legal processing. This arrangement aims to formalize trade routes and reduce illegal exploitation of resources, a longstanding issue between the DRC and Rwanda.

Congo’s Mines Minister, Kizito Pakabomba, emphasized the importance of diversifying partnerships to lessen the country’s reliance on China, which has historically dominated the Congolese mining sector through infrastructure-for-minerals deals. The U.S. is advocating for a comprehensive peace agreement and greater transparency in natural resource supply chains, aiming to channel substantial Western investment into the region.

Despite these efforts, significant challenges remain. Tensions between Congo and Rwanda persist, with Kinshasa accusing Kigali of smuggling vast amounts of minerals monthly. Rwandan officials maintain that their border security measures are necessary due to ongoing threats from within the DRC. Both nations express cautious optimism, recognizing the economic and regional cooperation potential of the proposed agreement.