Energy dominates World Economic Forum

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Source: CCTV.com | 11-01-2008 10:55

Energy issues have dominated talks on the second day of the regional meeting of the World Economic Forum in Turkey. An increasingly energy-hungry world is seeking alternative fuel options to ensure energy security.

Energy issues have dominated talks on the second day of the regional meeting of the World Economic Forum in Turkey.

Delegates at the forum say energy is a strategic issue that is important to all countries and is a vital part of countries' foreign policy.

A US energy official says diversifying energy supplies has always been part of US policy.

Jeffrey Kupfer, US Deputy Secretary of Energy said "We need diversity of supply, we need diversity of suppliers, we need diversity of supply routes and that's been our policy for a number of years and recent events have sort of put a finer point on it and that's much of the reason that the United States is continuing in these efforts."

A leading economist offered energy alternatives for Europe.

Fatih Birol, Chief Economist of International Energy Agency said "Europe has to find a solution to either replacing Russia gradually with other gas exporters such as the Caspian countries, such as some other energy exporters, and, or in the electricity generation, try to replace gas with other fuels such as renewable and nuclear power."

Delegates aim to agree on some restrictions in sustainable development, especially in terms of the environment.

Organizers of the forum hope it will also shape solutions to the global economic crisis by closely examining its causes.

The meeting will also focus on tackling the global economic downturn and business opportunities that might arise from the crisis. Other major topics include Central Asia's role in the world and Turkey's position as a bridge among Europe, Asia and the Middle East. The three-day meeting ends on Saturday.

Editor:Xiong Qu