U.S. and D.R. Congo Sign Strategic Partnership to Boost Minerals, Infrastructure, and Industrialization
The United States and the Democratic Republic of Congo signed a Strategic Partnership Agreement in Washington on Thursday, establishing a framework to guide and accelerate priority projects aimed at advancing Congolese industrialization, securing critical mineral supply chains, and developing major infrastructure.
Under the agreement, the DRC must submit an initial list of “DRC Designated Strategic Projects” within 30 days of the agreement taking effect. These projects are expected to support economic transformation through job creation, local value addition, improved logistics and energy infrastructure, and greater stability in mineral-rich regions that continue to face security challenges.
Within the same timeframe, the DRC will also provide a first list of mining licenses and exploration zones to be included in a new Strategic Asset Reserve (SAR). This mechanism focuses on critical minerals and gold.
The listed assets may include existing concessions or unallocated areas, and the United States will hold a right of first offer on any SAR project.
Several infrastructure initiatives are identified as priorities, including the rehabilitation of the DRC–Angola railway along the Sakania–Lobito corridor—an essential export route for copper, cobalt, and zinc.
Both governments intend to coordinate efforts with Angola and seek public and private financing, including support from multilateral development banks.
The agreement also highlights the strategic importance of the Grand Inga hydroelectric project. A dedicated Coordination and Governance Committee will be established to support financing and expand opportunities for U.S. companies involved in the development of the energy complex.
In addition, the United States will assist the DRC in formalizing artisanal mining, strengthening mining governance, producing geological data, securing supply chains, and creating a national “Strategic Minerals Reserve” to stabilize prices and ensure reliable access to minerals vital for U.S. industries.
All initiatives will be supervised by a Joint Steering Committee, which is expected to hold its first meeting within 90 days of the agreement coming into force. A tripartite review of progress is scheduled to take place every three years.
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