The United States and Japan held their third annual Energy Security Dialogue (ESD) in Tokyo, Japan, on December 12, reaffirming their commitment to strengthening energy security, accelerating the clean energy transition, and diversifying supply chains for critical minerals and clean energy technologies.
The dialogue, attended by Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry Director General KIHARA Shinichi, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Economic Affairs Bureau Director General KATAHIRA Satoshi, and U.S. Department of State Assistant Secretary for Energy Resources Geoffrey PYATT, emphasized the importance of a stable energy market and the need for careful observation of global energy market impacts due to current geopolitical developments.
The two nations reiterated their unwavering support for Ukraine, condemning Russia’s brutal military attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. They also recognized the climate crisis as an existential challenge and pledged to lead the global response, emphasizing the importance of simultaneously achieving net-zero emissions, economic growth, and energy security.
Key Takeaways from the Dialogue
Clean Energy Transition: The US and Japan committed to accelerating the clean energy transition, with a focus on minimizing methane and CO2 emissions from the fossil energy sector.
Energy Security: The two nations reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Japan’s energy security, including the US’s ability to predictably supply liquefied natural gas (LNG).
Critical Minerals: The US and Japan pledged to cooperate on critical minerals projects, building diversified and resilient supply chains to enhance economic and energy security.
Nuclear Energy: The two nations welcomed increased civil nuclear collaboration in third markets, including cooperation under the US Department of State’s Foundational Infrastructure for the Responsible Use of Small Modular Reactor Technology (FIRST) Program.
The dialogue also highlighted the importance of the Japan-US Mekong Power Partnership (JUMPP), which has made significant strides in advancing clean energy integration and regional interconnectivity in the Mekong region.
The US and Japan look forward to convening again at a senior level in 2025, reaffirming the great value of this Energy Security Dialogue and the productive track 1.5 component.
