India steps up with Quad: Target on China's rare earth dominance; supply diversification seen as key
The group introduced the Quad Critical Minerals Initiative to address China's control over rare earths and essential materials crucial for defence and technology sectors. Their joint declaration stated their commitment "to uphold a region free from coercion" and opposition to "any unilateral actions that seek to change the status quo by force or coercion".
The Quad ministers expressed serious concerns about supply chains reliant on a single source and criticised China's economic pressure tactics, price control practices, and threats to essential infrastructure security.
During the meeting chaired by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the participating nations agreed to diversify their sources of lithium, nickel, graphite, and other strategic minerals. Rubio stressed the importance of supply chain resilience to counter Beijing's potential trade leverage, highlighting the necessity for allied collaboration.
According to The Japan Times' July 2 report, analysts view this development as part of a larger effort to reduce China's economic influence.
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The publication noted that this initiative represents significant growth in Quad cooperation and aims to diminish Beijing's regional authority. China's control over critical mineral processing has generated concerns about potential industrial disruptions.
Strategic experts emphasise vigilance. At a US congressional hearing, former Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison discussed Beijing's trade restrictions against Australia and called for increased coordination among Quad members.
Former US ambassador Rahm Emanuel suggested establishing an alliance similar to NATO to counter Chinese economic pressure.
China's subdued reaction to the Quad announcement differs from previous responses, suggesting to analysts that Beijing might be carefully evaluating its position as its control over rare earth markets faces challenges.
The Quad meeting also discussed other regional issues: military activities in the East and South China Seas, cybersecurity concerns, and North Korea's actions.
The ministers reinforced their dedication to peaceful dispute resolution and international law.
The Quad's strengthening partnership indicates an important development in Indo-Pacific security arrangements. The Japan Times noted that this initiative demonstrates regional democracies' united stance against Beijing's economic and geopolitical pressure tactics.
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