India-US sign critical minerals, rare earths deal to counter China’s exports control dominance

India and the United States have announced a key agreement on critical minerals and rare earths during the Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, aiming to strengthen supply chains and reduce dependence on China. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said the framework will deepen cooperation across the entire critical minerals chain — from mining and processing to recycling and investment. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said both countries share strategic interests in securing long-term access to critical minerals essential for innovation and economic growth.