By Mike Visser | April 2025
As tensions in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) continue to escalate due to the resurgence of M23 rebels, China has taken an unusually outspoken stance—signaling a cautious but notable shift in its long-standing policy of non-interference in African conflicts.
At the heart of the matter lies not just geopolitics, but an intricate web of economic interests, particularly in mineral-rich eastern DRC, where China has invested heavily in mining operations. The area is a global hotspot for coltan, the source of tantalum used in everything from smartphones to jet engines. With the region’s stability under threat, Beijing’s calculated move to weigh in on the conflict reflects growing concern over its multi-billion-dollar mining footprint.
A Measured but Unmistakable Shift
For decades, China has adhered to a principle of non-intervention in the internal affairs of other nations. However, in recent months, Beijing has taken the unusual step of publicly calling out Rwanda for its alleged support of the M23 rebels operating in eastern DRC.
In February, Chinese UN Ambassador Fu Cong urged Rwanda to cease its backing of the rebel group and withdraw its troops from Congolese territory. “China reiterates its hope that Rwanda will heed the call of the international community,” he stated before the United Nations. China even supported a UN Security Council resolution condemning Rwanda’s actions—an uncommon stance for Beijing, which often abstains from resolutions that involve close partners.
While analysts stop short of labeling this a full policy reversal, they agree that China’s recent rhetoric signals a more pragmatic approach, driven primarily by the desire to protect its investments and ensure supply chain stability.
Why It Matters: Minerals and Global Competition
Eastern DRC is a treasure trove of critical minerals including gold, tin, tungsten, and tantalum—collectively known as the “3Ts.” These minerals are indispensable to modern industries, especially electronics and electric vehicle production. China sources a large portion of its tantalum from the DRC, and any disruption to mining operations could send ripples through its manufacturing sector.
Bukavu and Goma, two strategic cities near the Rwandan border, have become flashpoints in the conflict. These towns are not only under threat from M23 advances but are also home to numerous Chinese-run mining sites. Reports indicate over 450 illegal Chinese mining operations are scattered throughout South Kivu province alone.
“The potential disruption of supply lines of important minerals like coltan is a serious threat to Chinese production back home,” said Chris Alden, a foreign policy expert at the London School of Economics. “This is why China has broken its usual silence to speak up.”
Walking a Diplomatic Tightrope
Despite the more assertive tone, China is still treading carefully. Observers note that Beijing’s language towards Rwanda has remained relatively mild. Rather than issuing direct condemnations, China has focused on promoting dialogue and urging de-escalation. This diplomatic balancing act is part of an effort to maintain stable relationships with both Rwanda and the DRC, each of which play key roles in China’s Belt and Road Initiative and African investment strategy.
“China’s reaction is less about choosing sides and more about preserving stability in a region where its economic stakes are high,” said Zhou Yuyuan of the Shanghai Institutes for International Studies. “It’s a tactical response to an urgent situation.”
Benjamin Barton, an international relations expert based in Malaysia, agrees. “Had it been a Western actor instead of Rwanda, the language might have been stronger. But China is aiming to send a message without closing the door on future cooperation with Kigali.”
Global Response and Implications
China is not alone in expressing concern. The United States has also taken steps to hold Rwanda accountable, including imposing sanctions on a Rwandan official allegedly linked to M23 support. At the same time, Washington is exploring new mineral and security partnerships with the DRC to shore up access to critical resources for Western industries.
Amid this geopolitical tug-of-war, M23 rebels reportedly withdrew from Walikale following diplomatic pressure—a hopeful, albeit temporary, sign of de-escalation.
A Broader Role for China in African Security?
While China’s involvement remains limited to statements and UN votes, experts suggest it may be laying the groundwork for a more proactive, if still cautious, role in African peace and security matters. By aligning with multilateral platforms and African regional bodies, China may be testing the waters for a deeper diplomatic presence.
“China is willing to play a constructive role, particularly through soft diplomacy and support for peace dialogues,” said Zhou. “But it will remain reluctant to commit to hard intervention.”
Conclusion
With billions at stake in mining concessions and global supply chains hanging in the balance, China’s response to the M23 crisis reveals a pragmatic evolution in its Africa strategy. As the situation in eastern DRC unfolds, the world will be watching to see whether Beijing’s cautious foray into conflict diplomacy signals a one-time reaction—or the beginning of a broader shift in its global posture.
