Japan eyes energy in FTA with Australia
United Press International | 13 Mar 2007
Japan eyes energy in FTA with Australia
Energy News Editor
TOKYO, March 13 (UPI) — Japanese Trade Minister Akira Amari wants an energy clause included in the free-trade agreement being worked out with Australia.
Amari wants the clause to ensure a stable supply of energy to Japan, Asia’s No. 2 importer of energy, the Kyodo news agency reported Tuesday.
During a meeting with Australian Prime Minister John Howard, Amari said that under their deal, Japan could develop Australia’s uranium mines.
There was no official Australian response, Kyodo noted.
Australia is already a top supplier of coal and liquefied natural gas to Japan.
Talks on a free-trade agreement are scheduled for April 23 and 24.
Howard is on a four-day visit to Japan that began Sunday.
