EU and ASEAN establish Energy Dialogue

Ursula von der Leyen, at the podium. — ©European Union, 2022

At today’s EU-ASEAN Summit in Brussels, the European Commission and the Member States of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have agreed to set up the EU-ASEAN Energy Dialogue. In the context of global challenges such as the fight against climate change and the ongoing energy crisis, this dialogue will allow for a structured engagement on energy policy development, regulatory reforms, and practices in the two regions. Likely topics for future discussion include how to develop renewable energy and energy efficiency to support a clean and just energy transition, including potential cooperation on developing a successful hydrogen market for South-East Asia. This framework will also enable the two regions to have regular exchanges on energy security.

Commissioner for Energy Kadri Simson said:

Given the challenges posed by climate change and the current energy crisis, it is important that these two industrial powerhouses work more closely together on energy issues exchanging experiences and best practices. The establishment of internal energy markets and the integration of renewables in the grid are, for example, crucial areas where we can share our views and learn from each other.”

The EU-ASEAN Energy Dialogue will serve as a platform for policy dialogue, including the promotion of business and industry exchanges, and to inform cooperation programmes in the energy sector. The discussions may further inform the development and implementation of energy projects and initiatives under existing and future cooperation programmes between the EU and ASEAN. Today’s agreement follows Commissioner Simson’s meeting with ASEAN Secretary General, H.E. Mr. Dato Lim Jock Hoi, in September in Indonesia in the margins of the G20 meeting.

The Commission will further support the Energy Dialogue with a Global Gateway initiative and as part of a Team Europe approach. This will be in addition to the Green Team Europe Initiative in Partnership with ASEAN that will support the region’s transition towards clean energy and greater energy efficiency.