For countries like India, the stakes are enormous. To participate in the post-hydrocarbon global economy, the country needs secure and fair access to Congo's minerals.
Ties are ‘extractive’ given vast cobalt reserves in DRC and China’s bid to leverage its ability to fund infra in one of world’s least developed countries, says analyst.
Mineral security is no longer just an economic concern but a national security imperative, underpinning the country’s ambitions in clean energy, defence self-reliance, and advanced manufacturing.
Mini deal will likely see no cut in 10% baseline tariff on Indian exports announced by Trump on 2 April, it is learnt, but additional 26% tariffs are set to be reduced.
India-Russia JV is also racing to deliver 7,000 more AK-203 assault rifles by 15 Aug. These are currently being made with 50% indigenisation and this will surge to 100% by 31 December.
BJP has no dynastic succession, at least not at the top. You can trace this back to Vajpayee-Advani era. This act of spotting, empowering younger talent is even more striking with the choice of BJP presidents.
Poor, corrupt, and socialist India can’t secure minerals from Congo.