The U.S. and the DRC are negotiating a minerals-for-security deal that would provide America exclusive access to the DRC’s natural assets in exchange for military support against Rwandan-backed rebellions. The U.S. State Department expressed interest in partnering with the DRC, known for its critical minerals vital for technology. Lobbyists have proposed agreements for exclusive extraction rights to American firms.
The United States and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are currently in negotiations regarding a potential minerals-for-security agreement. This arrangement would grant Washington exclusive access to the DRC’s abundant natural resources, particularly critical minerals, in exchange for assistance in combating a rebellion allegedly supported by Rwanda.
The U.S. State Department confirmed its openness to a partnership with the DRC, emphasizing the country’s substantial reserves of essential minerals necessary for advanced technological applications. Such a collaboration aims to enhance security in the region while exploiting the DRC’s rich mineral deposits.
In February, lobbyists representing the DRC approached influential individuals in Washington, proposing that American companies be granted operational control along with “exclusive extraction and export rights”. This initiative seeks to align U.S. corporate interests with regional stability efforts in Central Africa. Additionally, letters addressed to prominent figures, including Marco Rubio, the U.S. Secretary of State, highlighted the concept of establishing a joint strategic mineral stockpile.
The discussions between the United States and the DRC represent a significant step towards forging a minerals-for-security partnership. By securing exclusive rights to the DRC’s invaluable natural resources, the U.S. aims to enhance regional stability while gaining access to critical minerals. This collaboration could potentially reshape geopolitical dynamics in Central Africa.
Original Source: www.thetimes.com
