Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the United States' attempt to counter China's dominance in critical minerals through international cooperation and trade measures, highlighting skepticism about the effectiveness of this strategy [1][3]. Group 1: U.S. Strategy and International Cooperation - The U.S. has recognized its inability to independently challenge China's position in the critical minerals sector and is now seeking to form alliances with other countries to establish pricing power [1][3]. - A recent meeting led by U.S. Vice President Vance included representatives from 54 countries and the EU, aiming to set price floors and impose "adjustment tariffs" to maintain Western control over critical mineral pricing [1][3]. Group 2: Criticism of U.S. Approach - Critics argue that the U.S.-led alliance lacks credibility and is primarily designed to benefit American companies, with many non-critical minerals included in the funding list [3][4]. - The article points out that the U.S. lacks significant rare earth deposits, which undermines its ability to lead a successful international coalition against China [3][4]. Group 3: Long-term Challenges - Competing with China in the critical minerals market requires building extraction and refining capabilities, as well as providing long-term price guarantees to non-Chinese producers, which are long-term projects that could take at least a decade [3][4]. - The article emphasizes that trust in the U.S. government and its political system is essential for other countries to commit to this alliance, which is currently in doubt [3][4].

Group 1 - The U.S. Department of State announced the signing of critical mineral agreements or memorandums of understanding with 11 countries during the first ministerial meeting on critical minerals in Washington, bringing the total to 21 countries that have reached cooperation intentions with the U.S. in this area [1] - The U.S. aims to reduce its dependence on China for mineral supplies, particularly in rare earths and lithium, through a strategic reserve plan worth $12 billion [3] - The meeting revealed that less than half of the 55 participating countries signed agreements, indicating that many are aware of China's dominance in the critical minerals market, which accounts for 70% to 90% of global processing capacity [5] Group 2 - Countries that did not sign agreements are cautious about the potential economic consequences of breaking away from existing mineral cooperation systems, which could lead to significant economic losses and even systemic crises for resource-dependent nations [7][8] - Notably, U.S. allies South Korea and Canada chose to strengthen cooperation with China instead of signing agreements with the U.S., indicating a rift in relationships and challenges for U.S. strategies in the critical minerals sector [9]