EU’s MoU with Rwanda on Critical Raw Materials Sparks Controversy in DRC
During his visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Janez Lenarčič, European Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid, addressed ACTUALITE.CD readers to clarify the context and objectives of the recently signed memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the European Union (EU) and Rwanda regarding critical raw materials.
“The MoU with Rwanda on critical raw materials is part of a broader initiative aimed at transforming regional mineral trafficking into sustainable trade,” Lenarčič explained.
“This builds on the MoU signed with the DRC in October 2023, which shares the same goal: to foster a business-friendly environment in the mining sector and eradicate abusive exploitation.
Currently, the illegal exploitation and trafficking of natural resources in eastern DRC perpetuate violence by funding armed groups and allowing them to operate with impunity. The EU is committed to breaking this destructive cycle.”
Lenarčič also acknowledged the discontent triggered by this agreement in the DRC.
“I understand that the recent MoU with Rwanda has caused frustration in the DRC. However, much of this frustration stems from misinformation and misleading propaganda aimed at undermining the strong and constructive partnership between the EU and the DRC,” he emphasized.
According to Lenarčič, the MoU with Rwanda represents a further step in the long-term process of promoting transparency, traceability, and sustainable, responsible production and processing of raw materials.
“These efforts will benefit the entire Great Lakes region. Only through cross-border collaboration can we reform this trade and build a more just and sustainable society for all,” he added.
The Congolese government expressed its displeasure on February 21, 2024, regarding the EU-Rwanda agreement on the value chain for strategic and critical minerals.
In a press release signed by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Christophe Lutundula, the government claimed that the agreement with Rwanda, which lacks significant mineral resources, effectively encourages the continued plundering of Congolese wealth by Rwanda.
“While recognizing the sovereignty of the signatory parties, the Government of the Democratic Republic of Congo denounces this Protocol, which clearly facilitates the plundering of Congolese natural resources by Rwanda and violates the commitments of the European Union.
Specifically, point 26 of the Joint Communiqué of the 2nd session of the DRC-EU Political Dialogue held in Kinshasa on October 5 and 6, 2020, highlighted the importance of benefiting from the implementation of the European regulation on conflict minerals (3Ts and gold) and other relevant provisions, including those in the Dodd-Frank Act, to enhance the fight against illegal exploitation of minerals from the DRC,” the press release stated.
