LOC10:21
07:21 GMT
BRUSSELS, Dec 6 (KUNA) -- The fourth EU-US Energy Council met in Brussels
Wednesday, chaired by EU High Representative Catherine Ashton, EU Commissioner
for Energy Guenther Oettinger, US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, and US
Deputy Secretary of Energy Daniel Poneman.
A statement released last night noted that the Energy Council, a central
component of the EU-US energy relationship, promotes transparent and secure
global energy markets; fosters co-operation on regulatory frameworks and
sustainable use of energy; and identifies joint research priorities that
promote clean energy technologies.
"The Energy Council recognised the expansion of shale gas and shale oil
production in the United States, which is having a profound impact on global
energy markets," it said.
"The Energy Council took note of the positive cooperation between the EU
and United States in pressing Iran to meet its international obligations. The
EU and United States affirmed their commitment to a two-track policy of
engagement and pressure, including sanctions on the export of Iranian crude
oil and petroleum products," it added.
The Council noted that "the significant current and future Eastern
Mediterranean gas discoveries could enhance the energy security of the
countries in the region.
The EU and United States are ready to assist interested countries in using
their energy resources to best serve their national and regional economic
interests."
The Energy Council acknowledged discussions over the past year on
hydrocarbon exploration in Nigeria, Libya, and Iraq, concerning global
markets, good-governance, development, and investment.
The Energy Council stressed the ongoing good co-operation on global oil and
gas markets, including the role of unconventional gas and promoting
competitive global energy markets as a means to enhance energy security and to
create a climate conducive to economic growth. (end)
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KUNA 061021 Dec 12NNNN