Australia Prime Minister to Meet Trump With Rare Earths in Focus

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is scheduled to meet with US President Donald Trump on Monday in Washington. The talks will focus on the supply chain of rare earth materials, which are crucial for the production of various high-tech products. Rare earth elements are a group of 17 minerals that are essential for the manufacturing of smartphones, electric vehicles, and other advanced technologies. The discussions between Albanese and Trump are expected to address the importance of securing a reliable supply of these materials, as they are predominantly produced in China. The meeting comes at a time when the United States and other countries are seeking to reduce their reliance on China for critical raw materials. The talks are likely to explore potential collaborations between Australia and the US to develop alternative sources and processing capabilities for rare earths. The outcome of the discussions could have significant implications for the global supply chain and the competitiveness of various industries that rely on these essential minerals.