Bangladesh, Oct. 26 -- In the busy Indo-Pacific, where over 60 percent of global sea trade flows, the US, UK, and Australia are deepening their strategic alignment. This week, during Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albaneses White House visit, President Donald Trump endorsed the next phase of the AUKUS pact, reaffirming Canberras purchase of at least three Virginia-class nuclear submarines, with deliveries expected in the early 2030s.

This move is closely tied to an $8.5 billion rare-earth minerals deal now under discussion, channeling billions into Australias mining and processing sector. The initiative aims to reduce Western reliance on China, which currently refines about 90 percent of global rare earths. In essence, both frameworks...