In A Veiled Jab On China, PM Modi Slams Weaponisation Of Critical Minerals Supply

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the BRICS Summit plenary session on “Strengthening Multilateralism, Economic-Financial Affairs, and Artificial Intelligence,” called for making the BRICS platform more effective in the context of an increasingly multipolar world.

Among his key proposals, Modi stressed the importance of greater cooperation in critical minerals and technology taking a veiled jab on China.

He emphasised the need to secure and build resilient supply chains for these vital resources, cautioning that “it must also be ensured that no country uses these resources solely for its own interests or as a weapon.”

Meanwhile, the importance of critical minerals in India’s strategic plans was further highlighted during bilateral talks between India and Argentina on the sidelines of the summit.

Briefing reporters after the meeting, MEA’s Secretary (East), P Kumaran, emphasised that Argentina’s abundant reserves of essential resources, including lithium, copper, and rare earth elements, closely align with India’s ambitions for clean energy and industrial expansion.

It was noted that cooperation in the energy and critical mineral sectors was discussed by the two leaders. India’s growing energy and industrial needs were underlined, and it was emphasised that Argentina could be regarded as a reliable partner in supporting India’s developmental journey.

Additionally, it was observed that Argentina’s rich reserves of critical minerals, such as lithium, copper, and rare earth elements, were seen as aligning with India’s need for secure and sustainable resources to advance its clean energy transition and industrial growth.

Kumaran also noted that Argentina, with the world’s second-largest shale gas and fourth-largest shale oil reserves, holds “strong potential to become an important energy partner for India.”

These discussions signal India’s clear intent to forge strategic partnerships to ensure stable and diversified supplies of critical resources crucial for its future growth.

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