US Pursues Energy Partnerships with Asian Allies Through LNG Exports
The United States is advancing discussions with Asian nations about increasing American liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports, with particular focus on reviving a long-proposed Alaska gas project. During a recent lunch meeting, President Donald Trump and energy secretary Doug Burgum discussed the potential $44 billion Alaska LNG project with Japanese Premier Shigeru Ishiba. According to officials familiar with the closed-door talks, the U.S. administration presented the venture as an opportunity for Japan to diversify its energy sources and address trade imbalances. Ishiba expressed interest in Japanese participation, though Japan's official statement did not mention the project. The U.S. strategy involves strengthening economic ties with East Asian allies through increased American fossil fuel exports, particularly LNG. This approach addresses regional concerns about trade tariffs and maritime security for energy shipments, based on interviews with current and former U.S. and Asian officials. […]
