GS2 – International Relations
Context:
The Quad (India, Australia, Japan, US) has launched the Critical Minerals Initiative to enhance supply chain security and counter China’s influence.
Objective
- To build economic security and resilience by securing access to critical minerals essential for:
- Renewable energy
- Electric vehicles (EVs)
- Advanced technologies
Significance
- Counters China’s dominance in critical minerals, which has led to market manipulation and strategic coercion.
- Reduces dependence on a single supplier.
- Supports the energy transition and contributes to regional stability.