Congo Proposes Security Deal to Connect Minerals with U.S. Protection

The Democratic Republic of Congo is proposing to President Trump’s administration a security deal aimed at linking military protection to the nation’s critical mineral resources. Spokesperson Tina Salama advocates for direct purchases from the DRC instead of through Rwanda, where resources are reportedly looted. The offer extends beyond the U.S. to European nations as well, highlighting the DRC’s urgency to combat illegal mining practices.

The President of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a leading supplier of various critical minerals, is advocating for a security arrangement with the United States akin to the deal being discussed concerning Ukraine. The DRC, which produces a significant portion of the world’s cobalt, seeks to connect its raw materials with military protection from the U.S. amid ongoing conflicts surrounding resource extraction.

Tina Salama, spokesperson for President Félix Tshisekedi, emphasized that the DRC’s resources are being sourced illicitly through Rwanda. “President Tshisekedi invites the USA, whose companies source strategic raw materials from Rwanda, materials that are looted from the DRC and smuggled to Rwanda while our populations are massacred, to purchase them directly from us the rightful owners,” she stated, illustrating the urgency of the proposal.

Furthermore, this offer for direct trade in minerals is not limited to the United States. Salama indicated that, “The offer is also extended to Europeans and to all parties involved in sourcing smuggled, blood-stained raw materials from Rwanda,” highlighting the DRC’s desire for international cooperation in combating illegal mining practices and improving its economic situation.

In summary, the Democratic Republic of Congo is seeking to establish a security partnership with the United States, connecting its vast mineral resources to military support. This initiative, voiced by President Tshisekedi and his spokesperson Tina Salama, underscores the DRC’s plight against illegal resource extraction and aims to improve the nation’s economic stability while addressing human rights concerns. The offer extends to European nations as well, reinforcing the call for direct dealings in Congo’s critical minerals.

Original Source: www.eenews.net