Congo, China deepen mining ties as US pushes rival minerals pact - Reuters

Congo and China are deepening their mining partnerships as the United States attempts to counter Beijing's dominance in critical minerals through a competing minerals pact. The Democratic Republic of Congo controls vast reserves of cobalt, copper, and other minerals essential for batteries and renewable energy technology, making it a strategic prize in global supply-chain competition. China has long cultivated mining relationships across Africa, securing reliable access to raw materials that power its manufacturing and technology sectors. The Trump administration's effort to establish an alternative minerals agreement reflects Washington's concern about dependence on Chinese-controlled supply chains for materials critical to defense and clean energy industries. Congo's willingness to deepen ties with China signals Beijing's continued leverage in Africa despite U.S. diplomatic and economic overtures.