(Updates to add Rio Tinto's response to MT Newswires' request for comment in the fifth paragraph and stock movement in the last paragraph)
Rio Tinto Group (ASX:RIO) is in early discussions with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to develop the Roche Dure lithium deposit into a mine, Bloomberg News reported on March 28, citing unnamed people familiar with the matter.
If finalized, the agreement would highlight Rio Tinto's readiness to operate in challenging regions, per the report.
For the DRC, securing a partnership with Rio Tinto could reduce Chinese influence in its mining sector.
The Roche Dure deposit is currently claimed by AVZ Minerals, the report added.
In response to MT Newswires' request for comment, Rio Tinto said it had "nothing further to add".
Shares of the company fell 2% in recent Monday trade.
(Market Chatter news is derived from conversations with market professionals globally. This information is believed to be from reliable sources but may include rumor and speculation. Accuracy is not guaranteed.)
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