<br><br>**Brazil and India Eye Rare Minerals Agreement A New Era of Cooperation in Critical Materials**<br><br>As the world's technological advancements rely increasingly on critical minerals, two major economies are set to forge a path-breaking agreement that could reshape the global supply chain. Brazil and India, among the largest consumers of these essential elements, have long recognized the importance of diversifying their sources.<br><br>**Strategic Partnership Paves the Way**<br><br>Brazil boasts the world's second-largest reserves of rare earths, while India seeks to reduce its dependence on top exporter China. This Saturday, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva are expected to sign a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on critical minerals in New Delhi.<br><br>**Diversifying the Global Supply Chain**<br><br>The agreement is likely to focus on enhancing cooperation between the two nations to secure access to these critical materials. With China holding a near-monopoly on rare earths production, some countries are seeking alternative sources. India's growing partnership with Brazil complements recent supply chain engagements with the United States, France, and the European Union.<br><br>**Foraying into New Markets**<br><br>According to Rishabh Jain, an expert at the Delhi-based Council on Energy, Environment, and Water think tank, Global South alliances are critical for securing diversified, on-ground resource access and shaping emerging rules of global trade. The partnership will grant India access to advanced technologies, finance, and high-end processing capabilities.<br><br>**Challenges Lie Ahead**<br><br>However, the agreement will not be without its challenges. Both Brazil and India have been impacted by US tariffs in 2025, prompting the two leaders to emphasize the importance of stronger cooperation. Washington has since pledged to roll back duties on Indian goods under a trade deal announced earlier this month.<br><br>**Multilateral Approach Key**<br><br>The meeting between Modi and Lula will also focus on global economic headwinds and strains on multilateral trade systems. The two leaders are expected to exchange views on the challenges to multilateralism and international trade, with Brazilian diplomat Susan Kleebank noting that Lula and Modi will have the opportunity to exchange views on... the challenges to multilateralism and international trade.<br><br>**A New Era of Cooperation**<br><br>As the world continues to evolve, it is crucial for countries to diversify their sources of critical minerals. The agreement between Brazil and India marks a significant step towards achieving this goal. By working together, the two nations can secure access to these essential elements and shape the emerging rules of global trade.<br><br>**Conclusion**<br><br>In conclusion, the meeting between Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi represents a significant development in the world of critical minerals. As the world relies increasingly on these elements for technological advancements, it is crucial for countries to diversify their sources. The agreement between Brazil and India marks a new era of cooperation in critical materials, with far-reaching implications for the global supply chain.<br><br>**Keywords** rare earths, critical minerals, Brazil, India, global supply chain, international trade, multilateralism
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