Inaugural Meeting Marks Official Launch of U.S.-DRC Strategic Partnership Agreement and Critical Minerals Cooperation

WASHINGTON/KINSHASA — February 5, 2026 — The governments of the United States and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) announced today the formal commencement of the U.S.-DRC Strategic Partnership Agreement, a landmark initiative designed to bolster economic ties and foster stability in the region.

Following the inaugural meeting of the Joint Steering Committee, officials confirmed that the DRC government has designated an initial list of Strategic Asset Reserve (SAR) assets. Under the newly implemented framework, U.S. companies will be granted preferential access to these designated assets, a move intended to drive investment into the DRC’s critical minerals sector while promoting transparency and employment opportunities.

“We are building a foundation for increased U.S. investment in the DRC, recognizing that economic growth is a cornerstone of long-term stability,” the governments stated in a joint release.

While the agreement focuses heavily on economic development and supply chain resilience, both delegations stressed that the partnership is inextricably linked to the security situation in the DRC. The parties engaged in discussions regarding ongoing efforts to advance stability in the eastern DRC, reaffirming that peace, security, and the preservation of territorial integrity constitute the “fundamental foundation” of the partnership.

During the meeting, officials reviewed progress on the Sakania–Lobito Corridor, noting its critical role in regional trade facilitation and infrastructure development.

The Joint Steering Committee also issued a direct call to the private sector. Entities meeting the eligibility criteria set forth in the agreement are invited to contact either government to obtain the SAR asset list and explore opportunities to be designated as a Qualifying Strategic Project.

Moving forward, the Joint Steering Committee plans to meet regularly to coordinate efforts and track the alignment of projects with shared objectives regarding economic development and regional connectivity. Both nations remain committed to fully implementing the agreement to “unlock the full investment potential of the DRC” and deliver tangible benefits to the people of both countries.