RismadarVoice Reporters
January 11, 2026
Qatar and the United Arab Emirates are set to join a U.S.-led initiative – aimed at securing artificial intelligence, semiconductor supply chains, Undersecretary of State for Economic Affairs, Jacob Helberg told Reuters.
The programme, known as Pax Silica, seeks to safeguard critical technology infrastructure, including minerals, advanced manufacturing, computing, and data systems. The initiative reflects Washington’s strategy to reduce dependence on rival nations, foster cooperation among allied partners.
Qatar is expected to sign the Pax Silica declaration on January 12, followed by the UAE on January 15. The coalition already includes Israel, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Britain, and Australia. Unlike traditional alliances, membership is determined by the industrial strengths of each country, rather than formal treaties.
Helberg said the initiative aims to accelerate the Middle East’s transition from an energy-dependent to a technology-driven economy. Projects under discussion include modernizing trade and logistics routes such as the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor.
U.S. and Israeli officials plan to launch the Fort Foundry One industrial park in Israel and finalize a tentative memorandum on AI cooperation on January 16 as part of the Pax Silica-linked Strategic Framework.
The initiative will focus on expanding membership, securing supply chains, and coordinating policies to protect critical infrastructure throughout 2026.
