The US and the Democratic Republic of Congo are making headway on a minerals deal, according to US senior adviser for Africa, Massad Boulos.
After meeting Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi in Kinshasa, Boulos announced that they’ve agreed on a path forward for the development of the minerals agreement.
The deal aims to tap into DR Congo’s vast natural reserves, including lithium, which is essential for battery and electric vehicle production. US involvement in extracting these minerals could help quell the violence that has plagued the east of the country for nearly 30 years.
Currently, Chinese firms dominate DR Congo’s mineral wealth, but the country is looking to diversify its partnerships.
The US State Department has emphasized the importance of promoting US private sector investment in the region and advancing efforts for durable peace in eastern DR Congo.
The proposed deal has both security and economic motivations. Joseph Bangakya, a Congolese lawmaker, highlighted the need for a trade agreement with the US, stating that “there can be no economic prosperity without security”.
Boulos’ trip is part of a broader effort to promote US interests in Africa.
He is also set to visit Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda, and has business interests in Africa, including in a Nigeria-based company.