Participants at an ASEAN energy forum in Da Lat city, Central Highlands Lam Dong province on July 20, stressed the need to boost research and cooperation to develop green energies in the region.

The participants, who came from ASEAN member countries, France and Sri Lanka , said that cooperation in building financial regimes and policies to discover and use new and renewable energies needs to be introduced as soon as possible.

Wee Rawat Chnnata Kome, a representative of the Asia-Pacific Energy Research Centre said that apart from using traditional sources of energy, including oil and coal, nations and enterprises should look at new sources of green renewable energies such as solar power and bio-energy.

The participants also underlined the role of the private sector, regional member countries and the ASEAN Business Advisory Council to boost cooperation amongst ASEAN members as well develop green energies.

Many were concerned at the emissions given by fossil fuels, the greenhouse effect, climate change and challenges in searching for new sources of energy.

Being aware of the risks to the economy and the environment caused by energy use at present and in the future, the participants said that by sharing their experiences and conducting joint research they can produce a long-term strategy for the region and its partners.

The Head of the International Cooperation Department under the Ministry of Industry and Trade, Cao Quoc Hung, said that climate change and energy are two priority issues. Initiatives put forth at the forum will help ASEAN and its partners use energy in a clean, sustainable and suitable manner./.