Analysts say the Cold War rivals are vying for influence in the country, which is marred with violence and conflict in its east because of the region’s rare minerals. The top priority during Blinken’s two-day stay in Congo is pushing for peace between Congo and Rwanda, which Kinshasa accuses of backing militia groups. Congo’s President Felix Tshisekedi plans to raise the issue with Blinken, the Congolese presidency has said. Tshisekedi “will not fail to discuss issues of strategic partnership between the DRC and the United States,” said the Congolese presidency in a statement. “The latest UN experts’ report on the invasion of Rwandan troops transformed into the M23 will not fail to be addressed,” it added.

Source: The North Africa Journal August 11, 2022 06:04 UTC