India Pursues Critical Mineral Deals

India is actively engaging in discussions with Brazil, Canada, France, and the Netherlands to establish agreements for the joint exploration, extraction, processing, and recycling of critical minerals, particularly lithium and rare earths. This strategic move aims to secure vital raw materials for India's energy transition and reduce its heavy dependence on China, which currently dominates global supplies and processing technology. The India — Ministry of Mines is spearheading these efforts, seeking to replicate elements of a critical minerals agreement previously signed with Germany. India has also secured pacts with Argentina, Australia, and Japan, and is in talks with Peru and Chile. The broader international engagement aligns with global efforts by entities like the G7 to diversify critical mineral supply chains away from China. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is expected to visit India to formalize cooperation on minerals and other sectors. This initiative is crucial for India's industrial growth, energy security, and its goal to cut emissions.