On May 1, ORF America hosted policy experts for a discussion on critical minerals, whose expansive applications in defense, tech, and energy, impact national security and present some very pressing geopolitical questions. The conversation included insights on the U.S. Critical Minerals strategy, mineral processing streams, mineral categorization, and dual use minerals. 

This was the 13th convening of ORF America’s Briefings & Beer series, which offers young professionals in D.C. the opportunity to informally engage with distinguished foreign policy experts and network with peers.

Speakers: 

• Leilani Gonzalez, Chief of Staff and Policy Director, Zero Emissions Transportation Association

• John Jacobs, Senior Policy Analyst (Energy), Bipartisan Policy Center

• Mahnaz Khan, Vice President of Policy, Critical Mineral Supply Chains, Silverado Policy Accelerator and Nonresident Senior Fellow GeoTech Center, Atlantic Council 

• Moderator: Medha Prasanna, Program Coordinator and Junior Fellow, ORF America