The United States faces a significant strategic challenge in securing access to rare earth elements and critical minerals essential for economic vitality and national security. China’s dominance in critical minerals markets, and its control over supply chains through protectionist policies or disruptions pose a direct challenge to U.S. industries reliant on these resources. To mitigate risks and diversify supply sources, the U.S. is increasingly looking to regions like the Caucasus, Central Asia, and Ukraine, which offer abundant reserves, favorable transport and logistics, as well as a strong interest in collaboration with the U.S.

The Caspian Policy Center will host a panel discussion on the critical mineral potential of the Caspian region. In this expert panel, speakers will address areas of opportunity for cooperation between the United States and the Caspian countries in securing strategic minerals, as well as in diversifying supply chains away from China. Additionally, CPC will present is research report, entitled “A Guide for Policymakers: How to Meet U.S. Strategic Mineral Needs.” These discussions will also explore policy recommendations for new U.S. administration for safeguarding strategic minerals industries in Central Asia, South Caucasus, and Ukraine that underpin U.S. economic and national security interests.

AGENDA

10:00 am – 10:05 am

Opening Remarks 

• Efgan Nifti, Chief Executive Officer, Caspian Policy Center

10:05 am – 11:30 am

Moderated Discussion and Q&A

Moderated by Ambassador (ret.) Richard E. Hoagland, Board Member, Caspian Policy Center

• Eric Rudenshiold, Senior Fellow, Caspian Policy Center
• Ariel Cohen, Managing Director, Energy, Growth & Security, International Tax and Investment Center (ITIC)
• Pini Althaus, Managing Partner, Cove Capital LLC
• Reed Blakemore, Director of Research and Programs, Global Energy Center, Atlantic Council

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