Critical minerals, such as rare earth elements, cobalt, and lithium, are integral to both the commercial economy (vehicles, phones, electronics) and national defense systems (F-35 jets, AEGIS radar). These minerals will also play a major role in the development of AI (Artificial Intelligence).

Mahnaz Kahn , vice president of policy at Silverado Accelerator, was among the panelists at the commission meeting. She laid out China’s strategy, which involves hoarding the minerals.

“They’re singularly focused on advancing their economy on AI, on energy, on defense, and all that relies on critical minerals,” she said. “It’s this game of master chess. People talk about just the minerals, but you have to think about the minerals serving as the end purpose. Their advancement in AI, innovation, energy, all of it, defense as well.”