BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: Asean energy ministers have called for urgent and coordinated regional action to address the impact of escalating geopolitical developments in the Middle East on global energy markets.
The call was made in a joint statement issued following the Special Asean Ministers on Energy Meeting (Special AMEM) held virtually on Monday (April 27), which focused on implications for regional energy security, including oil and gas supply stability, price volatility and supply chain disruptions.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Minister (Energy) at the Prime Minister’s Office Dato Seri Paduka Awang Mohamad Azmi Mohd Hanifah, who represented Brunei Darussalam, alongside other Asean energy ministers and representatives.
Also present were Acting Permanent Secretary (Energy) and Brunei’s Senior Official for Energy Leader Pengiran Jamra Petra and officials from the Department of Energy.
Chaired by Sharon S. Garin, Secretary of Energy of the Philippines, the meeting provided a platform for member states to exchange views and assess the evolving situation.
In the joint statement, ministers reaffirmed Asean’s collective responsibility to safeguard regional energy security through strengthened cooperation, including with dialogue partners, and timely policy responses.
They also called for the expeditious completion of national processes towards ratification of the Asean Framework Agreement on Petroleum Security (APSA), enhanced information sharing and greater diversification of energy sources to ensure stable, sustainable and resilient energy supplies.
The ministers emphasised the importance of regional preparedness and resilience in navigating uncertainties in the global energy landscape.
Brunei Darussalam’s participation underscores its continued commitment to supporting Asean cooperation, strengthening energy security and promoting economic stability in the region. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
