US AI Plan Snubs Major Allies, Starts With "Trusted" Few

The United States has launched a new plan to control the supply of a critical material for artificial intelligence. Its choice of partners sent a clear message. The "Pax Silica" initiative, announced this month, aims to secure the supply of silica-based materials. These are essential for making the advanced computer chips that power AI systems. At a summit on December 12-13, the US and a select group of countries signed the founding declaration. The initial partners are Japan, South Korea, and Singapore. Notably absent were major Asian technology players like India and Vietnam. Analysts say the small, trusted circle shows the US wants to build its AI supply chain with close allies first. This move is seen as part of a broader strategy to reduce reliance on China in key technology sectors. The initiative focuses on collaboration across the entire supply chain. This includes mining raw materials, manufacturing advanced glass, and producing final semiconductor components.