The Democratic Republic of Congo is aiming to finalize a strategic minerals agreement with the United States by the end of June, according to a report published by the Financial Times on Saturday.

The deal is expected to strengthen cooperation on the sourcing and supply of critical minerals—including cobalt, copper, and lithium—key components for electric vehicle batteries, renewable energy infrastructure, and military technologies. Congo is among the world’s largest producers of cobalt and holds significant reserves of other high-demand resources.

The Financial Times, citing Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi, reported that discussions are already underway, and the agreement would formalize Congo’s role in the U.S. strategy to secure non-Chinese supply chains for critical minerals.

The proposed deal is part of the broader Minerals Security Partnership (MSP), a U.S.-led initiative involving over a dozen countries aimed at reducing dependence on Chinese-controlled supply routes and promoting ethical, sustainable mining practices.