European Commission announces joint critical minerals partnership steps
Key points
Conclude EU‑US Memorandum of Understanding within 30 days
Develop Action Plans and explore a plurilateral trade initiative
TL;DR
EU, United States and Japan met in Washington, DC on 4 February 2026 at the Critical Minerals Ministerial.
They committed to conclude an EU‑US Memorandum of Understanding within 30 days to boost critical minerals supply chain security across mining, refining, processing and recycling and to address disruptions, research and stockpiling.
They will develop trilateral Action Plans, explore a plurilateral trade initiative with like‑minded partners, and engage in international fora including the G7 and the Minerals Security Partnership.
Original text
European Commission - Statement Joint press statement among the European Commission, the United States Government, and the Japanese Government following February 4 Critical Minerals Ministerial meeting Washington, DC, 4 February 2026 Today, the European Union, the United States and Japan met during the Critical Minerals Ministerial meeting held in Washington, DC in which several EU member states also took part. The E...