Energy
Asia Energy Security Seminar 2026
On February 25, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) held the Asia Energy Security Seminar 2026 under the theme of “The Role of Diplomacy in Energy Security.” The seminar was attended by over 300 participants, both in person and online.
At the beginning of the seminar, Mr. KOBAYASHI Izuru, Deputy Director-General of the Economic Affairs Bureau of MOFA, delivered opening remarks on behalf of the organizer. Mr. Kobayashi stated that energy security, which has been designated as one of the 17 strategic field for "investments that enhance resilience against potential crises and drive growth" under the TAKAICHI Administration, is the foundation of people's lives and economic activities, concerted efforts by both the public and private sectors are essential to maintain the stable supply of energy, including oil and natural gas.
In the presentation session, the following three panelists shared their perspectives on the challenges and risks regarding the stable supply of oil and natural gas, which are indispensable for Japan's energy security. The panelists were:
Mr. Jason ELLIOTT, Head of Energy Security and Emergency Division, International Energy Agency (IEA);
Mr. YANAGISAWA Takafumi, Executive Analyst, Gas Group, Energy Security Unit, The Institute of Energy Economics, Japan (IEEJ); and
Mr. EZUKA Ken, General Manager, Corporate Strategy & Planning Unit, INPEX Corporation.
In the roundtable session, the panelists engaged in an active discussion on the role of diplomacy in energy security. Points raised during the session included that the diversification of supply sources aimed at reducing geopolitical risks is essential for ensuring the stable supply of oil and natural gas, and that this diversification plays a critical role in Japan’s energy security in the past, present, and future. Additionally, from the perspective of private companies responsible for actual development and supply, it is crucial to ensure the stability of the investment environment based on favorable intergovernmental relations with resource-producing countries.
