The US is considering releasing part of its strategic energy reserves and increasing exports of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) as part of efforts to strengthen regional energy security, Reuters reported, citing US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau.

ASEAN is a regional intergovernmental organization that promotes economic, political, security, and socio-cultural cooperation among Southeast Asian countries. It includes  Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines, Vietnam, Brunei, Cambodia, and Myanmar.

Speaking at the ASEAN Future Forum in Hanoi, Landau said recent disruptions in global energy markets have underscored the importance of diversifying energy sources. He noted that the US is committed to supporting ASEAN member states in strengthening their long-term energy security and resilience, while helping them address current energy challenges.

ASEAN has become an increasingly important growth market for LNG as rising energy demand and declining domestic gas production drive greater reliance on imports. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), Southeast Asia is expected to account for more than a quarter of global energy demand growth through 2035, while industry forecasts suggest the region could become a net LNG importer by the early 2030s.