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  China controls the rare earths the world buys - can Trump's new deals change that? US President Donald Trump has signed a flurry of deals on his Asia visit to secure the supply of rare earths, a critical sector that China has long dominated. The deals with Japan, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia differ in size and substance and it's too early to assess their tangible impact. But they all include efforts to diversify access to the minerals that have become essential for advanced manufacturing, from electric vehicles to smartphones. The agreements, which aim to lock partners into trading with the US, are a clear bid to reduce dependence on China, ahead of a key meeting with its leader Xi Jinping. They could eventually challenge Beijing's stranglehold over rare earths, but experts say it will be a costly process that will take years. "Building new mines, refining facilities, and processing plants in regions such as Australia, the United States, and Europe comes ...
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A rock star's weekend guide to Denver


Wesley Schultz, half of the rock duo The Lumineers, knows all the best places to go in Denver when you're in town for a show at Red Rocks. Here are his local favourites.

Denver, Colorado is known for its laid-back lifestyle, its easy access to hiking and biking and a myriad of cultural and culinary attractions. With the Rocky Mountains as its backdrop, the Mile High City's glittering skyscrapers and artsy vibe belie its Wild West roots.

Wesley Schultz, who along with Jeremiah Fraites is part of the internationally renowned folk-rock band The Lumineers, has called Denver home since 2009. Though the band formed in 2005, it was their move from New Jersey to Denver that rocketed them to stardom. Schultz credits the relocation with giving them the space as creators to define their signature energetic folk-rock style and to write the songs that have brought them their fame. 

"We just kind of took a chance, and when we got here, it was beautiful," says Schultz. "There are a lot of transplants here; the weather is gorgeous and the people are super-friendly. I love it here."

Denver is also a short drive from one of the world's most unique and remarkable music venues – Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre; a venue built into and surrounded by orange-red sandstone rock formations that create a natural theatre. A bucket-list destination for performers and concert-goers alike, the stage has welcomed musical acts like The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, U2, Bob Dylan and Widespread Panic.

"You get a relatively intimate concert with some of the best acts in the world, who are bringing their A-game when they play there," says Schultz. "The artist is in awe of what they're seeing just as much as the audience is. You're in awe of the natural beauty and it's the best venue of any I've ever played as far as sound and lighting… It's amazing that it's right in our backyard."

Whether you're in town for a show at Red Rocks or otherwise, here's how Schultz recommends spending a weekend in Denver.

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