U.S. Eyes Myanmar's Rare Earths to Counter China
The Trump administration is considering altering U.S. policy towards Myanmar to access its rare earth minerals, which are primarily funneled to China. The discussions involve engaging Myanmar's junta or collaborating directly with ethnic rebels controlling mineral-rich areas. Logistics and geopolitical tensions present significant challenges to this strategy.
The Trump administration is exploring a revision of longstanding U.S. policy towards Myanmar to tap into its rich reserves of rare earth minerals. These minerals are crucial in counteracting China's dominance in the sector. Sources with direct knowledge of the discussions reveal the strategic focus on diverting the resources away from China.
Among the proposals being evaluated is a direct engagement with Myanmar's ruling junta to secure a peace deal with the Kachin Independence Army rebels, who control much of these resources. Alternatively, another approach suggests collaborating with the Kachin rebels without involving the junta.
The discussions, while still in the exploratory stage, underscore the logistical and geopolitical obstacles facing any strategy Washington might adopt. Despite President Trump's recent lifting of sanctions on Myanmar allies, officials maintain this doesn't signal a significant policy shift.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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