The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is pursuing balanced partnerships in its mineral industry, according to Foreign Minister Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner. She emphasized that the DRC does not see growing American involvement as a competition with China, but as a complement to its development goals.

“I don’t like talking about competition. I like talking about complementarity,” Wagner stated at the United Nations. She stressed the need for multiple partnerships to fulfill the DRC’s diverse needs and bring varied expertise.

An agreement between Washington and Kinshasa, signed on December 4, 2025, aims to boost economic cooperation and establish secure supply chains for critical minerals. This strategy seeks to reduce U.S. dependence on China-dominated mineral chains while fostering peace between Congo and Rwanda.

“More U.S. interests in the DRC can help transform mineral wealth into tangible benefits for Congolese and American partners,” Wagner said.

Kayikwamba Wagner highlighted the importance of local processing and technology transfer in mineral extraction. She warned that the shift to clean energy could replicate past dependency models, where raw materials are sourced from Africa and processed elsewhere.

The minerals initiative is tied to the peace process mediated by the U.S. between the DRC and Rwanda. The countries signed a peace agreement on June 27, 2025, focusing on economic cooperation to reduce conflict and encourage Western investment.

While the peace agreement has not ended violence, Wagner praised the U.S. for imposing sanctions on Rwanda over its alleged support for the M23 rebel group. She emphasized the need for persistent international pressure to address the 30-year conflict.

“The U.S. remains a committed partner, not giving up despite obstacles,” Wagner remarked.

Kayikwamba Wagner also raised concerns over rising sexual violence in areas controlled by M23 and Rwandan forces. She noted that victims often lack access to justice and healthcare, stressing the necessity of restoring state authority.

Regarding smuggling, Wagner cited the Rubaya mining area’s control by M23, where substantial tantalum is extracted. She reported that U.N. experts estimate significant quantities were illegally transported to Rwanda, benefiting the armed group financially.

The U.S. Treasury Department has issued further sanctions against networks aiding mineral smuggling from eastern Congo to Rwanda. These actions support the Washington peace framework and aim to enhance transparency in mineral supply chains.