Overview
- Fighting persisted this week in eastern Congo with fresh clashes reported, and residents in Goma saying the conflict remains active.
- The package builds on a Regional Economic Integration Framework and two bilateral accords that officials say will open access to rare earths, cobalt, lithium and other minerals for the U.S. government and companies.
- M23 rebels still control key eastern cities including Goma and Bukavu after this year’s advances, with both sides accusing each other of violating cease-fire terms.
- The Congo accuses Rwanda of aiding M23 as UN experts estimate 3,000–4,000 Rwandan government forces in eastern Congo, a claim Rwanda denies.
- Humanitarian conditions have deteriorated, with conflict monitors citing more than 400 deaths last month and services disrupted in rebel-held areas, even as U.S. business outreach events proceed in Washington.