Australia has formally joined a new U.S.-led international initiative, signing the Pax Silica Declaration at the inaugural Pax Silica Summit in Washington, D.C., as governments move to reinforce the security and reliability of global technology and critical mineral supply chains.

The summit convened representatives from seven core partners — the United States, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Singapore, Israel, the United Kingdom and Australia — who affirmed a shared commitment to coordinate on key segments of the silicon and advanced technology ecosystem, spanning critical minerals, semiconductor production, artificial intelligence infrastructure, energy systems, transportation and logistics.

The declaration, while non-binding, reflects a collective recognition of the strategic importance of resilient and diversified supply networks amid rising geopolitical and economic pressures, and sets out principles to foster secure technology development, trusted infrastructure and economic growth.

Australian officials said their participation underscores Canberra’s strategy of leveraging its strengths in critical minerals, advanced technologies and artificial intelligence to contribute to a competitive and secure digital economy.

The government’s statement noted that the pact supports efforts to build an inclusive, competitive digital ecosystem and strengthen economic resilience in the Asia-Pacific region.

As part of the broader framework, partners intend to explore cooperative projects, joint ventures and strategic co-investments that enhance supply chain coordination and reduce dependencies on single sources for minerals and manufacturing.

Pax Silica derives its name from the Latin terms for peace and the elemental compound that underpins silicon chip production, symbolising the initiative’s aim to promote stability, prosperity and innovation across allied economies.

The summit was also attended by guest contributors, including representatives from the European Union, Canada, Taiwan and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, signalling broader interest in advancing resilient, secure technology ecosystems.

Australia’s participation reinforces its role as a committed partner in shaping diversified, future-ready supply chains for critical technologies and underscores the growing nexus between economic security, strategic minerals and technological leadership.