In order to avoid the situation in Ukraine becoming tense and the procurement of natural gas being delayed in Europe, the Japanese government has decided to secure the necessary LNG = liquefied natural gas in the country and to accommodate a part of it for Europe.
This is an unusual response at the request of the Biden administration in the United States.
The situation in Ukraine continues to be tense, but Europe receives about 40% of the demand for natural gas, such as electricity, from Russia through pipelines.
However, if Russia invades Ukraine, the United States and Europe have indicated that they may impose economic sanctions on Russia, and Russia may reduce the supply of natural gas to Europe as a countermeasure. Is also out.
In light of this situation, according to people familiar with the matter, the government has decided to accommodate some of Japan's LNG for Europe.
This is an unusual response for Japan to respond to what the US Biden administration has requested to secure energy in Europe.
The government has decided to support Europe by seeking cooperation from energy companies with LNG interests, etc., after securing a sufficient amount to supply domestic electricity in a stable manner.
It is expected to be officially announced on the 9th at the earliest, and we will continue to consider the amount and timing of flexibility in the future.