Canada ready to support ASEAN in optimising energy resilience

Canada has affirmed its commitment to supporting ASEAN’s major mission of achieving energy security through the diversification of energy sources and renewable energy optimisation, amid geopolitical tensions that are pushing many countries to seek alternative resources. Weldon Epp, Assistant Deputy Minister for Indo-Pacific Affairs at Global Affairs Canada, expressed understanding and support for ASEAN nations’ struggle to balance sustainability with economic growth. “Canada is proud to be a partner in this effort, amidst the increasingly strong strategic partnership with ASEAN based on a shared commitment to economic development,” Epp said during the ASEAN-Canada strategic dialogue on energy resilience in Jakarta on Tuesday. He added that disruptions in energy markets have exposed vulnerabilities in the current system, from supply chain weaknesses to uneven infrastructure. At the same time, he noted, energy demand in ASEAN continues to rise. “The increase is much faster than in other regions of the world, but this is positive when viewed through the lens of economic development,” said the official from the institution equivalent to Canada’s foreign ministry. Canada is ready to extend a hand to help ASEAN. He explained that Canada is intensively involved in a number of energy infrastructure projects in the ASEAN region. In addition, Canada is also contributing financially to support sustainable development in the region. Through the ASEAN-Canada Trust Fund, Canada has contributed to a project related to carbon capture and storage worth 1.38 million Canadian dollars together with the ASEAN Centre for Energy. “Together, Canada and ASEAN can build a partnership framework in the areas of support, policy, capital, and research that can unlock the potential of new projects in the region,” Epp stated. He also welcomed the inaugural dialogue on energy resilience and energy transition between Canada and ASEAN, which brought together new ideas and strengthened the partnership to ensure ASEAN can maintain energy security amidst global turmoil.