Belgium is ready to deepen its involvement in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) critical minerals sector, according to Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot, who is currently visiting the Central African country as it seeks to diversify its investment partnerships.
The DRC holds some of the world’s largest reserves of copper, cobalt, lithium, and uranium.
However, persistent instability and insecurity—particularly in the east—have long hindered the scale of foreign investment required to fully develop the sector’s potential.
Amid growing interest from global powers, Kinshasa is actively looking to attract new partners.
Talks are already under way with Washington, following outreach by a Congolese senator proposing a minerals-for-security agreement to U.S. officials.
In response to questions from Reuters on Monday regarding Belgium’s potential involvement, Prévot said his country has the technical expertise and corporate experience to play a bigger role.
“We have globally recognized expertise through companies like Umicore and John Cockerill, which are capable of processing a wide range of rare and critical materials,” he said. “If the opportunity arises to become an investment partner, we will not hesitate.”
Belgium’s engagement in the DRC’s mining sector is not new. Despite China’s dominant presence, Belgian firms have maintained long-standing roles in the extraction, processing, and trading of Congolese cobalt, copper, and diamonds.
Notably, in 2023, Belgium-based materials technology company Umicore signed an agreement with state mining company Gécamines to export germanium concentrates to Europe.
Prévot emphasized that Belgium’s approach prioritizes mutual benefit and long-term cooperation, drawing a contrast with other actors whose involvement may be more transactional.
“We observe the motivations of some international partners, which at times can be primarily focused on short-term gains,” he noted.
As part of his trip, Prévot is also scheduled to visit Beni on Tuesday to highlight ongoing human rights concerns, especially in the conflict-ridden eastern provinces.
The region remains unstable, with Congolese forces engaged in heavy fighting against M23 rebels backed by Rwanda.
Belgium’s increased interest comes at a time when the global race for critical minerals is intensifying, and the DRC is asserting greater agency in shaping its investment landscape.
