Japan, Qatar sign energy cooperation pact

Japan and Qatar have signed a cooperation agreement aimed in part at securing long-term energy supplies for the import-dependent Asian nation. Details of the pact weren't announced.

April 24, 2006

Eric Watkins
Senior Correspondent

LOS ANGELES, Apr. 24 -- Japan and Qatar have signed a cooperation agreement aimed in part at securing long-term energy supplies for the import-dependent Asian nation. Details of the pact weren't announced.

"It's a joint statement, a commitment for further strengthening between Japan and Qatar in the economic and industrial sectors," said Toshihiro Nikai, Japan's Minister for Economy, Trade, and Industry.

Qatar's Second Deputy Premier and Minister of Energy and Industry Abdullah bin Hamad Al Attiyah Al Attiyah said the statement "is intended to boost economic bilateral ties between Qatar and Japan" but told reporters the agreement
would not result immediately in projects or increased energy sales.

Contact Eric Watkins at [email protected].