The US is looking to partner with India in a new economic security framework focusing on securing global supply chains for advanced technologies, according to Under Secretary of State for Economic Affairs Jacob Helberg. This initiative, known as Pax Silica, emphasizes areas like semiconductors, critical minerals, logistics, and AI infrastructure. Helberg highlighted India’s increasing role in technology and supply chain discussions and expressed anticipation for India’s participation in the partnership next month.
The global technology landscape has evolved significantly in recent years, with supply chains now seen as strategic tools rather than just commercial systems, Helberg noted. He emphasized the importance of winning the AI race across innovation, market diffusion, and supply chain security to avoid disruptions in technological advancements. The US administration aims to establish American-led systems as the global standard in emerging technologies.
Pax Silica, as described by Helberg, is a coalition of technologically advanced economies, with recent partners including Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. The initiative focuses on membership, policy, and projects, aiming to align on sensitive technologies, critical infrastructure, and industrial capacity. Helberg stressed the role of the private sector in driving these efforts, emphasizing the need for regulatory support and incentives to secure supply chains effectively.
Helberg clarified that Pax Silica is not targeted at China but is part of an overarching American strategy to ensure reliable access to essential resources and competitive manufacturing capabilities. The initiative will prioritize trust-based partnerships and collaborative efforts on industrial capacity and logistics, rather than imposing rigid criteria that could hinder cooperation.
