THE Democratic Republic of Congo President Felix Tshisekedi has insisted his country will not “auction” its vast mineral wealth to the US, despite ongoing negotiations for a strategic partnership similar to arrangements already established with China. Speaking in New York on Monday, Tshisekedi was quoted by Reuters as saying Congo remained committed to developing its mining sector through partnerships rather than simply selling raw materials. “We will be working in the development of the mining sectors, developing the value chain, developing infrastructure with a particular emphasis on energy,” he said. These materials are essential for technology and renewable energy sectors, making Congo strategically valuable to global powers, said Reuters. Tshisekedi indicated Congo has signed a strategic partnership with China and is currently negotiating similar arrangements with the US, though he provided limited details about either agreement, said Reuters.