In a significant move to strengthen the Dominican Republic’s position in the global energy transition, Foreign Minister Roberto Álvarez and Minister of the Presidency Joel Santos represented the nation at a high-level ministerial meeting on critical minerals at the US Department of State on 4 February 2026.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio hosted the inaugural Critical Minerals Ministerial at the US Department of State in Washington, D.C. Delegations from around 50 nations were invited to advance collective efforts to strengthen and diversify critical minerals supply chains. The gathering was scheduled to create momentum for collaboration to secure these critical components vital to technological innovation, economic strength, and national security.
The meeting, convened by the United States government focused on the strategic importance of rare earth elements and other critical minerals essential for modern technology and clean energy. The Dominican delegation’s participation underscores the country’s growing role in international efforts to diversify and secure global supply chains.
During the summit, Minister Álvarez highlighted the Dominican Republic’s commitment to responsible mining practices and its potential to contribute to the Mineral Security Partnership (MSP). The discussion centered on fostering transparent, sustainable, and resilient mineral markets that reduce dependence on single-source suppliers.
“Our presence here reflects the Dominican Republic’s proactive stance in the global dialogue regarding the resources that will power the future,” officials noted. The meeting served as a platform for the Dominican ministers to engage with counterparts from around the world, exploring investment opportunities and technical cooperation to enhance the country’s mineral extraction and processing capabilities.
The high-level talks also addressed the geopolitical implications of critical minerals, with US officials emphasizing the need for democratic partners to collaborate on securing the materials required for semiconductors, electric vehicle batteries, and defense systems.
Read more:
US Department of State
El Caribe
5 February 2026