President Tshisekedi Condemns Rwanda-EU Pact as Threat to DRC’s Resources
President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has sharply criticized the recent memorandum of understanding between Rwanda and the European Union (EU) regarding sustainable value chains for critical raw materials.
Speaking during a special press briefing aired live on the national channel, Rtnc, Tshisekedi labeled the agreement as a tasteless provocation.
Tshisekedi argued that the pact would only serve to further exploit the DRC’s natural resources to the benefit of the Rwandan regime.
He condemned the EU’s involvement, accusing it of indirectly supporting the illicit trade of minerals, which he claimed ultimately fueled armed conflict and instability in the region.
The president emphasized that Rwanda lacks significant quantities of these critical minerals, suggesting that the memorandum effectively legitimizes the illicit exploitation of Congolese resources.
He expressed concern that the proceeds from such activities could be used to finance Rwandan military endeavors in the DRC, implicating the EU as an accomplice in perpetuating regional instability.
Tshisekedi concluded by highlighting the contradiction between the EU’s professed commitment to democracy and its endorsement of a pact that undermines the sovereignty and stability of the DRC.
He noted that while some EU member states may oppose the agreement, it remains a source of contention within the Congolese socio-political landscape.
