Expressing support for the strengthening of United States-Africa partnerships in critical minerals development.

The United States relies heavily on critical minerals for its national security and economic interests, but current supply chains are significantly controlled by foreign entities of concern, notably those associated with the People's Republic of China, posing substantial risks. Africa holds significant critical mineral reserves, offering an opportunity for diversification. This resolution advocates for a United States policy to diversify critical mineral sources, preventing these foreign entities from restricting or increasing the cost of access to these vital resources. It seeks to improve coordination among federal agencies to facilitate US business investment in critical minerals in friendly foreign countries, including through the multinational Minerals Security Partnership. The resolution specifically calls for enhancing mutually beneficial partnerships with African countries. This involves mobilizing investments in new or expanded critical mineral production and processing projects in Africa to bolster transparent global market access and promote responsible sourcing and value-added processing. Furthermore, it urges the administration to provide incentives like financing and technical assistance for US and African businesses, and to transform existing agreements, such as the Memorandum of Understanding with the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia, into meaningful investment programs. The House also directs the Secretary of State and other relevant agencies to develop a 5-year strategy to strengthen commercial diplomacy, provide financial support, and encourage private sector investment in African critical mineral development.