Energy Secretary Bodman Leads US Delegation to International Energy Agency Ministerial

PARIS, FRANCE -- May 03, 2005 -- ENERGY DEPARTMENT DOCUMENTS AND PUBLICATIONS/ContentWorks

Secretary of Energy Samuel W. Bodman this week is leading the U.S. Delegation to the Ministerial Meeting of the International Energy Agency (IEA), being held in Paris. Secretary Bodman will emphasize three principles at the IEA Ministerial -- that energy security is a global concern requiring global solutions; that advanced technology is vital in solving the world's energy problems, and; that we must invest today to meet our energy goals for the future.

"Energy security is a challenge not only for the United States, but for all nations as demand continues to grow around the world," Secretary Bodman said. "We must work with our international partners to encourage all nations, particularly those with developing and transitional economies, to create positive investment climates and utilize the latest technologies and alternative energy sources to meet their energy needs in the most efficient and environmentally sensitive ways."

The Ministerial will focus on energy issues facing the world, including the international energy market, energy security, energy efficiency, and expanding investment in energy infrastructures. The discussions will also include methods to increase the use of technology to increase oil production and improve energy efficiency in environmentally responsible ways on an international scale.

In addition to participating in the IEA Ministerial, Secretary Bodman will meet with Government officials and other Energy Ministers to discuss energy security and supply issues. The officials include Claude Mandil, Executive Director of the International Energy Agency; Zhang Xiaoqiang, Vice Chairman of China's National Reform and Development Commission; Shoichi Nakagawa, Japan's Minister for Economy; Ian MacFarlane, Australian Minister of Industry, Tourism and Resources; Andris Piebalgs, Commissioner for Energy, European Union.

The IEA is an intergovernmental body that fosters international cooperation on energy issues. It was formed in 1974 in response to the Arab oil embargo, and serves to reduce the vulnerability of member countries in the event of another major disruption in oil supply.

Media contacts:

Anne Womack Kolton, 202/586-4940

Drew Malcomb, 202/586-5806

Number: R-05-107

News Provided By