US Aims for Greater Energy Cooperation with ASEAN

The United States is looking to strengthen energy cooperation with ASEAN, aiming to meet the region's growing demand for power. US Ambassador to ASEAN Kevin Kim noted that Southeast Asia would require significant additional energy resources to sustain its economic expansion.

Kim highlighted the importance of diversifying energy sources in the region and mentioned liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplies and small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs) as potential solutions. The US is willing to provide access to the American LNG market, deploy US-bred technologies, and collaborate with ASEAN on SMRs.

Kim also emphasized the significance of regional energy resilience, citing the implementation of the ASEAN Petroleum Security Agreement and the development of strategic petroleum reserve stockpiles. He stated that Washington would remain actively engaged on energy-related issues and acknowledged the importance of SMRs in meeting future energy demands.