AsianFin -- The U.S. government is actively promoting the creation of a $5 billion mineral investment fund, according to sources familiar with the matter.

The proposed fund would be formed through a joint venture between the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) and New York-based investment firm Orion Resource Partners, with each party contributing equal amounts to reach the $5 billion total.

Key terms are still under negotiation, and neither side has committed to finalizing the deal. If established, this would mark the first time the U.S. government directly participates in a large-scale mineral transaction.