US Seeks to Counter China's Mineral Dominance, While Tensions Simmer Between US and Iran
Washington D.C. - The United States is spearheading an initiative to establish a trade zone for critical minerals, essential for manufacturing a wide range of products from smartphones to weapons, in an effort to challenge China's stronghold on the industry, according to BBC Technology. This move comes as senior US and Iranian officials are expected to meet in Oman for direct talks amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, BBC World reported.
The US State Department hosted the inaugural Critical Minerals Ministerial event on Wednesday, bringing together representatives from countries and organizations including the UK, European Union, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, BBC Technology stated. Delegates at the event discussed the availability of and access to minerals crucial to the manufacture of various technologies.
The talks between US and Iranian officials are occurring against a backdrop of increased US military presence in the Middle East, following Iran's violent repression of anti-government protests last month, BBC World noted. Human rights groups estimate that thousands were killed during the protests. The discussions are part of a diplomatic effort to de-escalate tensions between the two countries. According to BBC World, uncertainty over the location and scope had threatened to derail the talks. The US delegation will be led by special envoy Steve Witkoff, while the Iranian team will be headed by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.
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