You've very rightly pointed out the enormous generational economic opportunity that is represented by critical minerals. The global economy is becoming increasingly dependent on critical minerals and metals for clean technologies, including electric batteries in electric vehicles as well as defence and security-rated applications. There is no energy transition without the much-expanded production of critical minerals.
We made investments in 2021 in creating the critical minerals centre of excellence and to support targeted research and development in processing and battery precursors. We ramped that up in budget 2022 with a proposed $3.8 billion over eight years to support Canada's critical minerals strategy. This will increase business activity for critical minerals in Canada, enabling new green and transformative mining and processing technologies to enhance Canada's innovative capacity. We are focused on an end-to-end strategy from mines through mobility and recycling.
I certainly would note again that, through these regional economic tables, we are engaging with many provinces and territories that have an interest in this file.