Africa · Central Key Facts —Strategic Partner. The US–DRC Strategic Partnership Agreement signed in December 2025 designates the DRC a “strategic partner” of the United States. —Cobalt Dominance. The DRC holds approximately 55% of global cobalt reserves and produces roughly 70–80% of the world’s supply, essential for EV batteries and defence systems. —Copper Output. The country produced approximately 3.3 million metric tons of copper in 2024, making it the world’s third-largest producer. —Chinese Footprint. Chinese firms control roughly 80% of the DRC’s cobalt output and had a stake in 15 …
Africa
Africa & Latin America
Congo Praises US Partnership as Critical Minerals Race Intensifies
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July 17, 2026
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8 min read
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