Australia-India Energy and Minerals Forum

The Australia-India Energy and Minerals Forum is intended "to enhance energy and mineral cooperation between Australia and India through strengthening links between Australian and Indian governments, research organisations, industry and associations."

At the inuagural meeting of the forum, the Australian Foreign Minister, Stephen Smith, gave an overview of the various collaborative projects being funded or developed. Coal, mining and power stations were prominently mentioned. Smith argued that Australia was a leader in "cutting-edge mining technologies" including "the development of newer techniques such as for the extraction of coal seam methane."

Smith emphasized that the Australian government was looking forward to "more joint research projects and ongoing cooperation" and noted that five "strategic action plans have been put in place between the Australia's Department of Resources and Energy and the Indian Ministries of Coal, Mining, Petroleum and natural gas, New and renewable energy, and Power. These action plans are the cornerstone of the strategic partnership in energy and minerals that brings us here today."

Smith also mentioned that Australia and India were working on other energy topics including "low-emissions coal" and "carbon capture, use and storage".

Contact details
Website: http://www.ret.gov.au/resources/enhancing/bmec/aus_india_forum/Pages/default.aspx

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