India-US Forge Alliance to Break China's Critical Mineral Monopoly; Jaishankar Plays Key Role

• A global initiative, FORGE, involving 55 countries, aims to diversify the critical mineral supply chain and reduce dependence on China.
• External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar attended the Critical Minerals Ministerial in Washington, hosted by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
• India, with its critical mineral reserves, stands to gain technological cooperation and boost domestic industry by joining this block.
• The initiative seeks to secure minerals essential for green energy, EVs, defense, and smartphones, currently dominated by China (over 90% global export).
• US Vice President JD Vance announced a special trade bloc to challenge China's supply network, with India playing a crucial role.