India-US Framework on Critical Minerals and Rare-Earths
India and the US have signed a significant framework aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation on critical minerals and rare-earth supply chains. This partnership is crucial in countering China's influence over these vital resources.
Key Elements of the Framework
- Purpose: Establish secure and stable supplies of critical minerals.
- Signatories: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
- Aim: Deepen cooperation across various stages including mining, processing, and recycling.
Quad Initiative
The framework aligns with the Quad foreign ministers’ agreement on a similar initiative.
- Objective: Enhance cooperation among Quad partners on critical mineral supply chains.
- Investment: Mobilization of up to $20 billion from government and private sectors.
- Focus Areas:
- Mining
- Processing
- Recycling
- Regulatory alignment and environmental considerations
Strategic Importance
The collaboration marks a significant milestone, aligning with the vision set by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former President Donald J. Trump during Modi's visit to Washington, D.C. in February 2025.
