Congo officials said they were optimistic about the possibility of a deal with Washington next month to secure US investment in critical minerals and end Rwandan-backed rebel activity in the east of the country, the Financial Times reported, BTA reported.
The US hopes to regain position in the mining sector where China has emerged as a dominant power since Beijing struck a multi-billion dollar deal with Kinshasa in 2008, giving Chinese companies access to Congolese mines in exchange for infrastructure.
Congo's mining minister, Kizito Pakabomba, told the newspaper. The Financial Times reported that the agreement with the US would help "diversify partnerships" and reduce the country's dependence on China to exploit its vast mineral wealth.
The deal could also pave the way for cooperation between Congo and its neighbours, including Rwanda, in metals exports and processing. However, Rwanda will not be allowed to participate in Congo's mineral trade until rebels from the M23 (March 23 Movement) armed group withdraw from the vast territory they seized in January, officials said.
The government of Rwandan President Paul Kagame denies supporting the M23, but says his army is defending itself against hostile forces. Rwanda has long been accused of using insecurity along its border as a smokescreen to plunder Congolese resources, including gold and coltan, which is used in the production of mobile phones.
Rwanda sees the talks between Congo and the United States as an opportunity to legalize access to Congolese resources and attract American investment to expand its metalworking industry.