A special meeting of ASEAN Energy Ministers was held yesterday afternoon via videoconferencing, chaired by the Secretary of Energy of the Philippines, the current rotating chair of ASEAN energy cooperation programmes. The meeting focused on the latest developments affecting energy security in the ASEAN region as a result of ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. Union Minister for Electricity and Energy U Ko Ko Lwin, along with the permanent secretary, directors-general and relevant officials, attended the meeting.

During the discussion, Union Minister U Ko Ko Lwin stated that the conflicts in the Middle East have had an impact on domestic fuel distribution in Myanmar. Although the country, which relies heavily on fuel imports, has faced various challenges, it has been systematically implementing emergency response measures. He added that both short-term and long-term plans are being made to meet the nation’s energy needs. Drawing lessons from the current situation, Myanmar will continue to cooperate with ASEAN member states, regional countries and the international community in its efforts to strengthen energy security. He also noted that the country will pursue research, development and innovation aimed at transitioning to renewable energy and other alternative energy sources.

At the meeting, ASEAN Energy Ministers, together with the ASEAN Secretariat and the ASEAN Centre for Energy, held open and constructive discussions on the impact of the Middle East conflicts on regional countries, strategies to ensure energy security, the current global energy markets and supply chains, and coordinated efforts to maintain sufficient supplies of oil and natural gas within the ASEAN region. It was reported that strong cooperation and real-time coordination with dialogue partners through ASEAN-led mechanisms will be pursued to safeguard regional energy security.

MNA/MKKS

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