The Union Minister of Water Resources, Shri P. R. Dashmunsi inaugurated the first BIMSTEC Energy Ministers’ Conference here today. Ministers and delegates representing Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand attended the meeting. One of the main objectives of the Conference was to give impetus to intra-BIMSTEC cooperation in Energy sector.
The Conference deliberated upon various options and strategies for expanding and strengthening cooperation in energy sector and adopted a Ministerial Declaration. It also approved a Plan of Action to implement the decisions of the Conference. The BIMSTEC Energy Ministers agreed to a vision of electric grid connectivity in the region by developing country-to-country grid inter-connections for ultimately facilitating flow of electricity across the region.
The Conference recognized the need for detailed feasibility studies and techno-economic agreements between and among participating countries to allow for the optimal utilization of the natural gas resources of the region. It was also agreed to develop hydro power potential of the region, suitably addressing the concerns regarding rehabilitation and environment. The Energy Ministers, interalia, agreed that all hydro power projects, irrespective of their size are clean and renewable sources of energy.Special emphasis will be laid for promoting non-conventional energy sources and harmonization of standards. Joint R&D activities would be undertaken for development of cost effective technologies for developing non-conventional energy resources.
The Conference recognized the potential of energy efficiency measures in promoting economic growth and competitiveness of respective economies of the member countries. Efforts will be made to harmonize Standards and Labelling within BIMSTEC countries. Building, domestic appliances and transport have been identified as key areas for focusing attention in respect of energy conservation.
The Conference called upon for experience sharing in reforms, restructuring and best practices in Energy sector. It has been decided to establish a BIMSTEC Centre for Energy for facilitating energy studies and exchange of expertise. The Ministers agreed to enhance Energy Security through optimal development of energy resources of the region, namely, oil, gas, hydropower, coal, biofuels and other non conventional energy resources.
BIMSTEC-an acronym for Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation, is a grouping for regional cooperation. Its current membership includes Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka & Thailand. In the First BIMSTEC Summit held in Bangkok on July 31, 2004, energy was identified as one of the sectors for focused cooperation. At the Summit, Prime Minister of India had offered to host the BIMSTEC Ministerial Conference on Energy Cooperation.
BKS/MK.
(Release ID :12499)