The US is forging new partnerships in Asia to counter China's dominance in mineral supplies.
The US and Japan signed an agreement to support the supply of critical minerals and rare earths.
Both countries plan to provide financial backing for selected projects within six months.
The agreement aims to "support the supply of raw and processed critical minerals and rare earths crucial to the domestic industries of the United States and Japan"
Author's summary: US and Japan partner to secure rare earth supplies.