US, India moving very close to finalising critical minerals agreement: Envoy Sergio Gor

The United States and India are moving very close to finalising a critical minerals agreement aimed at strengthening supply chains for advanced manufacturing, clean energy systems and emerging technologies, with a major announcement expected in the coming months, US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor said on Friday.

Speaking at the India Today Conclave 2026 , the envoy said the proposed pact would help ensure reliable access to key minerals essential for sectors such as electric vehicles, renewable energy, semiconductors and defence manufacturing. These minerals are increasingly seen as vital for both economic growth and national security in the rapidly evolving global technology landscape.

“I am very pleased to say that the US and India are moving very close to finalising a critical minerals agreement that will help secure the supply chains needed for advanced manufacturing, energy systems and emerging technologies,” Gor said, adding that a big announcement is expected in the coming months .

He said the past few months have witnessed a remarkable series of breakthroughs in bilateral relations, including progress in trade, trusted technology cooperation and strategic coordination between the two governments.

Among the key developments is a framework for an interim US–India trade agreement announced earlier this year, under which both countries aim to reduce import duties on several goods to boost two-way commerce.

Gor noted that the partnership is not limited to tariffs or market access but also focuses on securing resources that will shape the future global economy. Critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt and rare earth elements are essential for batteries, advanced electronics and clean energy technologies.

India possesses deposits of minerals such as rare earth elements, graphite and titanium-bearing ores, though it still relies heavily on imports for several strategic materials. The discovery of 5.9 million tonnes of lithium resources in Jammu and Kashmir has also raised hopes of strengthening the country’s domestic supply base.

Highlighting the strategic dimension of the partnership, Gor said cooperation is expanding across defence and technology sectors. The two countries are exploring collaboration in advanced engines, unmanned systems and maintenance operations in India.

He also emphasised India’s role in the Quad and Indo-Pacific security cooperation , describing the country as a strong and reliable partner for building resilient supply chains and maintaining regional stability.

“When the US and India work together, we help build a future that is more secure, more prosperous and more open,” Gor said.