technology supply — Qatar and the United Arab Emirates will soon join a U.S.-led initiative to secure AI and semiconductor supply chains, according to Undersecretary of State for Economic Affairs Jacob Helberg in a recent interview with Reuters. This significant development highlights a concerted effort to unify the region’s political landscape through economic cooperation.
The initiative, known as Pax Silica, aims to protect the entire technology supply chain, encompassing critical minerals, advanced manufacturing, computing, and data infrastructure. This programme is a crucial aspect of the U.S. strategy to lessen reliance on competing nations while fostering collaboration among allied partners, including Israel, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Britain, and Australia.
Helberg emphasised that the Silicon Declaration is more than just a diplomatic statement; it is intended to serve as an operational framework for establishing a new consensus on economic security. The inclusion of Qatar and the UAE is particularly noteworthy given the historical political divisions in the Middle East.
Qatar is expected to sign the Pax Silica declaration on January 12, followed by the UAE on January 15. Helberg described Pax Silica as a “coalition of capabilities,” where membership is determined by the industrial strengths and companies of each participant nation.
This initiative signifies a pivotal shift for both the UAE and Qatar, moving away from a security architecture heavily reliant on hydrocarbons towards one centred on silicon and technology. Helberg expressed optimism that this shift could expedite the region’s transition to a more diversified economy.
The announcement comes just ahead of The Future Minerals Forum, a major global minerals and supply chain conference hosted by Saudi Arabia from January 13–15. This event will gather senior officials, industry leaders, and investors, reinforcing the importance of regional collaboration in securing supply chains.
Helberg revealed that this year’s focus for the Pax Silica group will be on expanding its membership, developing strategic projects to safeguard supply chains, and coordinating policies to protect critical infrastructure and technology. He noted that the group convened in Washington last month and anticipates several meetings throughout the year.
Discussions are also underway regarding initiatives aimed at modernising trade and logistics routes, particularly the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor. These efforts will leverage advanced U.S. technology to enhance regional integration and extend America’s economic influence.
Officials from the U.S. and Israel plan to introduce a Pax Silica-linked Strategic Framework, which includes the “Fort Foundry One” industrial park in Israel designed to accelerate various projects. Additionally, AI cooperation is on the agenda, with a memorandum of understanding expected to be signed on January 16.
