Emerging
May 26, 20261
US, Armenia sign framework on critical minerals and rare earths
The United States and Armenia signed a framework memorandum on mining and processing critical minerals and rare-earth metals in Yerevan. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the agreement could strengthen economic independence and improve access to materials vital for modern technologies.
Rubio described processing and refining critical minerals as increasingly important for innovation and long-term prosperity, but no further details of the framework were released.
Quick Facts
- signed a framework memorandum on mining and processing critical minerals and rare-earth metals
- said the agreement would help strengthen economic independence
- described critical minerals as essential to modern technologies and innovation
- United States
- Armenia
The United States and Armenia have signed a framework memorandum on mining and processing critical minerals and rare-earth metals, according to remarks by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Yerevan. Rubio said the agreement is intended to help both countries secure reliable access to key materials used in modern technologies and industrial production.
In comments to reporters, Rubio said cooperation on critical minerals would be financially beneficial and support innovation in the 21st century. He argued that the ability not only to access but also to process and refine these materials is increasingly important for economic growth and competitiveness.
Rubio said countries that develop such capabilities will be better positioned to achieve economic independence and play a central role in future innovation, while those that fail to keep pace risk falling behind. The memorandum was signed earlier on May 26 in Armenia's capital, Yerevan.
The agreement comes as governments around the world seek more secure supply chains for minerals used in electronics, energy systems and other advanced technologies. The United States and Armenia have not disclosed further details of the framework or any specific commercial commitments tied to it.
Why This Matters
This agreement signals a push by both countries to secure access to minerals that underpin electronics, energy systems, and advanced manufacturing. For businesses and policymakers, it may indicate future cooperation on supply chains, processing capacity, and investment opportunities tied to critical minerals, though the lack of disclosed details means the near-term commercial impact is still uncertain.
Timeline & Sources
May 26, 2026
WireThe United States and Armenia signed a framework memorandum on mining and processing critical minerals and rare-earth metals in Yerevan.
May 26, 2026
WireMarco Rubio told reporters the agreement could help strengthen economic independence and support innovation.