Framework laid for energy coop b/w India,Japan

New Delh, July 2: The second meeting of the 'India- Japan Energy Dialogue' which concluded here today outlined a framework for the development of specific co-operation projects in the energy sector, including cooperation in clean energy, energy efficiency and conservation through the participation of Japanese companies in the power sector in India.

The meeting was held between Planning Commission Deputy Chairman Montek Singh Ahluwalia and Japanese Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Akira Amari.

Other issues that were discussed at the meeting related to climate change, energy efficiency and energy security.

Later addressing a Press Conference here, Dr Ahluwalia said the Dialogue was of considerable significance in view of the importance the two countries attach to cooperationin the area of energy.

In reply to a question, Dr Ahluwalia said ths issue of co-operation in the field of nuclear energy between the two countries did not crop up as it was not the mandate of the dialogue meeting.

Mr Akira said "the most efficient and effective means of creating a virtuous cycle of energy security, economic development and environmental protection is to promote energy efficiency and conservation measures, as well as further development of energy infrastructure." On the occasion, Dr Ahluwalia and Mr Akira signed a Joint Statement on behalf of their repective governments. The Dialogue is a periodic ministerial-level energy policy discussion aimed at evolving a framework for cooperation in the sector.

An MoU was signed between the Energy Conservation Centre, Japan, and TERI for implementing academic and comprehensive joint research and study on various energy situations and challenges currently facing the world and those specifically facing India and Japan.

UNI