U.S. – DRC Strategic Partnership Forum
Join leaders from government, industry, and the diaspora to explore the historic U.S.–DRC partnership agreement — covering economic development, critical minerals, infrastructure, security, and governance reforms.
U.S. – DRC Strategic Partnership Agreement
Signed on December 4, 2025, this agreement establishes a comprehensive framework for long-term cooperation between the United States and the Democratic Republic of the Congo across multiple sectors.
Core Objectives
Economic Development
Mining, energy, infrastructure, and beneficiation — supporting the DRC's transition from an extractive economy toward local value addition and industrialization.
Security & Defense
Strengthening bilateral security cooperation and defense capabilities for regional stability and peacekeeping.
Science & Education
Scientific and educational exchanges to build human capital, foster innovation, and develop technical expertise.
Governance & Institutions
Judicial reform, anti-corruption measures, and institutional strengthening to improve transparency and the business climate.
Key Initiatives
Infrastructure & Energy
The partnership links critical mineral development to major infrastructure projects, specifically the Sakania-Lobito Corridor and the Grand Inga hydropower project, which serve as anchors for energy-intensive industrialization. These initiatives aim to create opportunities for job creation, skills transfer, and improved economic resilience.
Strategic Minerals Reserve
The agreement contemplates establishing a Strategic Minerals Reserve (SMR) located in the DRC to ensure predictable supply for the U.S. market, emphasizing local processing of critical minerals and downstream manufacturing.
Investment & Business Opportunities
Pathways are created for Congolese businesses to integrate into U.S. and global value chains through partnerships, subcontracting, and joint ventures with American companies. Access to U.S. development finance institutions and export credit mechanisms will support private-sector growth.
Governance & Reforms
- Renewable fiscal stabilization clauses
- Fast VAT reimbursements
- One-stop-shop (guichet unique) for investors
- Transparency and governance strengthening
Diaspora Engagement
The Congolese diaspora is recognized as a strategic stakeholder in implementing the partnership, with potential roles in mobilizing investment capital, technical expertise, and institutional leadership to strengthen economic ties between the DRC and the United States.
Upcoming Forums
DRC-US Strategic Partnership Washington Forum
Washington, DC
Feb 7 – Feb 7, 2026
Jack Morton Auditorium, George Washington University
A one-day forum exploring the historic U.S.–DRC Strategic Partnership Agreement signed on December 4, 2025 under the Washington Accords for Peace and Prosperity. The forum brings together government officials, diaspora leaders, investors, academics, and stakeholders to discuss the economic, industrial, and institutional impact of the partnership.
Freddy Shembo
Your Host
298 spots remaining
DRC-US Strategic Partnership Dallas Forum
Dallas
Mar 7 – Mar 7, 2026
Javits Center
The East Coast edition brings together finance, healthcare, and enterprise tech leaders for a deep dive into digital transformation and emerging technologies.
Marcus Williams
Your Host
150 spots remaining
DRC-US Strategic Partnership Atlanta Forum
Atlanta
Mar 14 – Mar 14, 2026
243 spots remaining