Recent smuggling convictions underscore China’s leverage over a mineral vital for defence and industry, prompting the US, EU and allies to seek independent supply chains.
The development underscores concern about supply chains for cobalt, nickel, lithium, and other minerals that are essential for solar panels, batteries and other clean technology.
The minerals that Pakistan purports to offer to the US are either in quantities too small to matter, of a type that the US does not need, or would be much more easily sourced from other partners.
In a discussion organised by the Observer Research Foundation, Chilean and Argentinian ambassadors highlight areas of interest to deepen ties amidst geoeconomic headwinds.
Islamabad’s latest attempts to woo Trump are through the offer of critical minerals and now a $1.2 billion port project roughly 100 km from the Chinese-built port of Gwadar.
According to govt, the scheme will develop 270 kilo ton annual recycling capacity, yield 40 kilo ton critical minerals, attract Rs. 8,000 crore investment, & create nearly 70,000 jobs.
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.
Alongside the new agenda, announced in a joint statement by the foreign ministers of Australia, Japan, India, and US, several new initiatives were also launched.
With bad loans shrinking & capital buffers stronger, urban co-op banks’ new umbrella body NUCFDC is now prioritising rollout of digital transformation.
If deal goes through, Greece will be 2nd foreign country to procure vehicle. Morocco was first; TATA Group has set up manufacturing unit there with minimum 30 percent indigenous content.
Many of you might think I got something so wrong in National Interest pieces written this year. I might disagree! But some deserve a Mea Culpa. I’d deal with the most recent this week.
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