President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has proposed granting the United States and Europe access to the country’s extensive mineral resources in exchange for their intervention to resolve ongoing conflicts within the nation.
This initiative seeks to stabilize the DRC by encouraging direct purchases of critical minerals from the country, thereby countering alleged illicit sourcing through neighboring nations.
Presidential spokesperson Tina Salama emphasized the importance of direct transactions, urging the U.S. and European countries to buy strategic raw materials directly from the DRC, the rightful owner, rather than through intermediaries involved in smuggling activities.
DRC is rich in minerals such as cobalt, tantalum, tin, and tungsten, which are essential for various technologies, including electric vehicles and electronics. Currently, China holds a significant presence in Congo’s mining sector, while the European Union has engaged in mineral agreements with Rwanda.
President Tshisekedi’s proposal aims to attract legitimate international investment to stabilize the DRC’s mining industry and address the ongoing conflict, particularly in the eastern regions. By fostering direct partnerships with Western nations, the DRC hopes to enhance security and ensure that its mineral wealth benefits the country’s development.
