Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs attends the Critical Minerals Ministerial and related activities in Washington, D.C.

On 3 - 4 February 2026, H.E. Mr. Vijavat Isarabhakdi, Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs, on behalf of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, attended the Critical Minerals Ministerial and related activities in Washington, D.C. at the invitation of the U.S. Secretary of State. The meeting aimed to promote diversification of global critical minerals supply chains and was attended by ministers and high-level representatives from over 50 countries.

The meeting was opened by the Honorable J.D. Vance, U.S. Vice President, and chaired by the Honorable Marco Rubio, U.S. Secretary of State. On this occasion, the U.S. side presented an initiative to establish a trading bloc on critical minerals among allied and partner countries to enhance access, develop price floor mechanisms, and prevent supply chain disruptions of critical minerals. These minerals are essential inputs for industrial manufacturing and technological innovation and are vital to strengthening economic and national security. The meeting also underscored the importance of building sustainable global critical minerals supply chains that are resilient and accessible at affordable prices. Participants exchanged views and sought further clarification on the U.S. initiative for future consideration.

The Vice Foreign Minister also attended a seminar entitled "Securing Critical Mineral Supply: A Government-Industry Dialogue" at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS). The seminar provided a platform to exchange views on public-private partnerships in strengthening critical minerals supply chains and to enhance networks between government officials and industry leaders. He was also invited to participate in a roundtable discussion on "Indo-Pacific Critical Minerals: Integrating Upstream and Downstream."

Participation in the Ministerial meeting contributed to promoting opportunities for international cooperation on critical minerals, which are vital to the development of advanced technologies and future industries, and to enhancing Thailand's long-term competitiveness.