Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 05:30pm on 12 May 2026,Tuesday India Global
India and Russia are in advanced talks to sign a preliminary agreement on critical minerals focused on exploration, processing and technological collaboration. According to sources familiar with the discussions, the proposed deal will primarily cover lithium and rare earths while also facilitating corporate investments between the two countries. The agreement could reportedly be signed within two months. India is seeking to reduce dependence on China, which dominates global critical mineral supplies and processing technology, while securing overseas resources for its energy transition and infrastructure growth. New Delhi has already signed similar agreements with Argentina, Australia and Japan, and is also negotiating with Peru and Chile. India may also revisit Rosatom’s lithium project in Mali if conditions stabilise. (PC: Shutterstock)
