Iran voices readiness to ensure Asia’s energy security
By Gunay Hasanova
Iran is eager to play an active role in Asian collaborations by taking part in the production, developing new markets and providing secure energy.
Iran’s President Hassan Rouhani made the remark while addressing the 2nd Asia Cooperation Dialogue Summit in Thailand on October 10, the state-run IRINN TV.
He further said that Tehran is seeking to become a new hub for rail, air, and sea transportation in West Asia through developing its capacities and with an active role in the Eurasian transport network.
“Asia’s power is dependent on self-confidence and a shared will for convergence,” Rouhani said, adding that by connecting the east and west of Asia, the Asia Cooperation Dialogue can help expand economic cooperation and create a promising vision of peace and stability.
Security and stability are the prerequisites for development, as the development is imperative for ensuring security and stability, he said.
Rouhani added that Iran stands up strong against the expansion of extremism and terrorism in the region.
“We cannot talk about security while ignoring terrorist atrocities in Iraq and Syria, or the bombardment of women and children in Yemen,” he said.
Hassan Rouhani is in Thailand, on the final leg of his three-nation tour of Southeast Asia. President Rouhani left Malaysian capital city of Kuala Lumpur on October 8 for Thailand to discuss the expansion of trade ties.
The Iranian president launched his Asian tour on October 5. The Vietnamese capital of Hanoi was his first destination.
Before departure, Rouhani briefed reporters about his agenda of talks in the three countries. He described Asia as a highly important continent for Iran, adding, “The 21st century belongs to Asia.”
China, India, Japan and South Korea are among big Asian oil consumers that have sharply boosted their imports of Iranian crude this year. Asian markets account for roughly 75% of Iran’s crude oil exports.
Iran has the fourth largest oil reserves and the largest natural gas reserves in the world, while the country is also the third largest exporter of oil in the world.
Iranian oil sales have nearly doubled since sanctions were lifted on its oil exports in January 2016. In fact, Iran is recovering market share faster than many experts had expected.
China and India are looking to further lock down Iranian supply, with a large planned investment in Iran’s oil and gas infrastructure. Iran is seeking $130 billion worth of investment to bring its energy sector up to date after years of sanctions.
Previously, Reuters reported that Iran’s June 2016 sales to its four major Asian oil customers—China, Japan, India and South Korea—were 47.1% higher than a year ago.
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Gunay Hasanova is AzerNews’ staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @gunhasanova
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