Colombia and United States sign strategic minerals agreement

The Colombian government and the United States have signed a Memorandum of Understanding regarding strategic minerals. This non-binding bilateral agreement establishes a framework for cooperation, including an agenda for nuclear energy and other sectors.

The agreement has raised concerns among environmentalists and local communities regarding the potential for increased extractive policies. Critics argue that such cooperation may prioritize resource exploitation over environmental protection and the rights of local populations. The deal comes amid global competition for critical minerals, such as copper, which is projected by ECLAC to see significant growth through 2040. The strategic interest for Washington is linked to securing supply chains in competition with China.