Congo has experienced a surge in violence following a major offensive by Rwandan-backed M23 rebels in January, which resulted in the capture of the two largest cities in the eastern region.
- Congo and Rwanda set to sign agreement in Washington for peace and economic development.
- Agreement is part of diplomatic effort to end violence after Rwandan-backed rebels’ advance in eastern Congo.
- Washington discussing investing billions in Congo’s mineral-rich economy.
Congo and Rwanda are set to sign an agreement in Washington on Friday aimed at promoting peace and economic development.
This move is part of a broader diplomatic effort to end the violence following an advance by Rwandan-backed rebels in eastern Congo. The agreement will be signed by the foreign ministers of both countries at a ceremony with the U.S, Reuters reported.
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Secretary of State Marco Rubio, coincides with ongoing talks in Washington about investing billions of dollars in Congo’s mineral-rich economy. Rwanda also announced this week that it is in discussions with the U.S. about a potential minerals deal.
Congo has experienced a surge in violence following a major offensive by Rwandan-backed M23 rebels in January, which resulted in the capture of the two largest cities in the eastern region.
The United Nations and Western governments have accused Rwanda of providing arms and troops to M23, though Rwanda denies these claims, asserting that its military has acted in self-defence against Congo’s army and a militia composed of individuals linked to the 1994 genocide.
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Congo’s mineral resources
Both Qatar and the U.S. have expressed interest in mediating a resolution to the conflict. Qatar has long positioned itself as a peacemaker in global conflicts, while Washington is motivated by the potential to access a greater share of Congo’s vast mineral resources.
Washington is looking to secure greater access to vital minerals such as copper, cobalt, and lithium, key materials used in mobile phones and electric vehicles. These resources are currently controlled largely by China and its mining companies.
