2024 Sep 26

Advancing Collaboration through Joint Opening Ceremony of 42nd ASEAN Ministers on Energy Meeting (AMEM-42), and its Associated Meetings, and 24th ASEAN Energy Business Forum (AEBF-24)

Vientiane, 26 September 2024 – The 42nd ASEAN Ministers on Energy Meeting (AMEM-42), and its Associated Meetings, and the 24th ASEAN Energy Business Forum (AEBF-24) officially commenced today with a joint opening ceremony in Vientiane, Lao PDR. It is hosted by Ministry of Energy and Mines (MEM), Lao PDR and organised by the ASEAN Centre for Energy (ACE). Marks a critical milestone in ASEAN's collective efforts to advance regional energy security, accessibility, affordability, and sustainability.

The ceremony witnessed the attendance of Energy Ministers from ASEAN Member States, including Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Viet Nam, underscoring the high-level political commitment to address the region’s pressing energy challenges and maximise the region’s potential. Together with some Dialogue Partners and International Organisations.

During the opening remarks, H.E. Phosay Sayasone, Minister of Energy and Mines (MEM), Lao PDR, stressed the importance of the region's cooperation in ensuring a sustainable energy future for ASEAN, stating “Today, I am delighted to be part of the gathering of high-level leaders from ASEAN Member States, Dialogue Partners, and experts in our energy sector. Under Lao PDR’s ASEAN Chairmanship in 2024, this year’s theme is " ASEAN: Enhancing Connectivity and Resilience " highlighting the significant role of ASEAN energy integration in fostering economic and social development of the region, while also addressing climate change and advancing the transition towards cleaner energy. As we approach the final phase of the APAEC Phase II work plan set for 2025, it is essential that we reflect on our accomplishments and the path forward to achieve ASEAN’s shared goals.”

H.E. Phosay Sayasone continued, “In the coming two days, through the 42nd AMEM and AEBF-24, I am confident that, in addition to achieving productive outcomes, we will further strengthen regional cooperation to ensure energy security and sustainable future for everyone in the community.”

The AMEM-42 will focus on reviewing and advancing the implementation of the ASEAN Plan of Action for Energy Cooperation (APAEC) Phase II: 2021-2025. Moreover, the AEBF-24 will promote the development of ASEAN energy sector, becoming a high-level platform for information exchange and cooperation opportunities in advancing energy cooperation.

This joint event marks a pivotal moment in ASEAN’s energy landscape as the region works toward achieving the regional target for energy sector under APAEC Phase II: 2021-2025.