How Are India and Japan Collaborating on Critical Minerals?
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Synopsis
India and Japan have taken a significant step towards enhancing their partnership by signing a memorandum of cooperation focused on critical minerals. This collaboration aims to establish robust supply chains, vital for energy, national security, and achieving net zero emissions. Discover how this alliance could reshape the future of mineral resources and economic cooperation.
Key Takeaways
- India and Japan sign a Memorandum of Cooperation.
- Focus on critical minerals supply chains.
- Joint investments in mineral exploration and processing.
- Target of 10 trillion yen investment over the next decade.
- Collaboration aims to achieve net zero emissions.
New Delhi, Aug 29 (NationPress) Minister of Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy announced on Friday that India and Japan have formalized a memorandum of cooperation regarding mineral resources. This agreement focuses on the establishment and diversification of critical minerals supply chains, which are vital for achieving our energy security, national security, food security objectives, and net zero emission targets.
The Minister highlighted that the Ministry of Mines and Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) signed this Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Japan for the 15th India-Japan Annual Summit, where he met with his Japanese counterpart, Shigeru Ishiba. Both Prime Ministers have pledged to collaborate across various sectors, including the economy, health, mobility partnerships, AI, science and technology, and critical minerals and rare earth elements.
Key areas for collaboration in the mining sector include the exchange of information on mineral resources, joint development of critical mineral projects, mining auctions, sustainable deep-sea mining practices, and initiatives for the stockpiling of critical minerals.
Both nations will also encourage joint investments in the exploration, mining, and processing of critical minerals within India and resource-rich countries. The Minister added that any other mutually agreed cooperation forms will also be pursued.
During the announcement, Prime Minister Modi remarked that India and Japan have set the stage for a new and prosperous chapter in their Special Strategic and Global Partnership, which is crucial for global peace and stability.
In a media briefing following his meeting with PM Ishiba, he stated: "Our goal is to attract a 10 trillion yen investment from Japan into India over the next decade. We will particularly focus on enhancing connections between Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and Start-ups in both nations."
He further mentioned that a comprehensive roadmap has been established for the upcoming decade, centering on investment, innovation, economic security, environmental sustainability, technology, health, mobility, cultural exchanges, and partnerships between states and prefectures.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the significance of the India-Japan partnership in the realm of critical minerals. This alliance not only aligns with our national interests but also enhances our position in the global mineral supply chain. By fostering cooperation in technology and resource management, both nations pave the way for a sustainable future, which is essential for economic stability and environmental stewardship.
NationPress
30/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the memorandum signed between India and Japan?
The memorandum aims to establish and diversify critical minerals supply chains, enhancing energy, national, and food security while striving for net zero emissions.
Which ministries are involved in the cooperation?
The Ministry of Mines from India and the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) from Japan are involved in this cooperation.
What are the key areas of collaboration in the mining sector?
Key areas include information exchange on mineral resources, joint development of projects, sustainable mining practices, and stockpiling efforts.
How much investment is targeted from Japan to India in the next decade?
India aims to attract a 10 trillion yen investment from Japan over the next ten years.
What is the significance of this partnership for global stability?
This partnership is crucial for enhancing global peace and stability through economic collaboration and resource security.
