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.
Statement by American President comes after two days of intense negotiations by US and Chinese officials in London to put trade truce agreed to last month back on track.
China built its mineral empire with foresight. The US is reacting with tariffs. And emerging powers like India are stepping in with strategic steps toward autonomy.
In Trump’s first 100 days in office, dominated by scattershot tariff wars and chaotic foreign policy manoeuvers, the deal stands out for its sheer survival through the noise.
President Félix Tshisekedi has proposed a ‘partnership that would provide US with a strategic advantage’. DRC’s negotiations come at a time of escalating violence in region.
25 minerals exempted from customs duty. Sitharaman also announced setting up of ‘Critical Mineral Mission’ for production, recycling, and overseas acquisition of mineral assets.
India’s industrial output growth saw a 10-month low in June, with Index of Industrial Production (IIP) growing by mere 1.5% as against 1.9% in May 2025.
Standing up to America is usually not a personal risk for a leader in India. Any suggestions of foreign pressure unites India behind who they see as leading them in that fight.
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