Cambodia backs Japan-led energy initiative to bolster oil supply resilience

PHNOM PENH, April 17, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia has thrown its support behind a Japan-led regional framework aimed at strengthening energy security and safeguarding oil supply chains across Asia amid mounting global uncertainty, officials said Wednesday.

The endorsement came as Cambodia joined 14 other nations in backing the launch of the “Partnership on Wide Energy and Resources Resilience (POWERR Asia)”, designed to tackle both immediate disruptions and long-term structural challenges.

Speaking after an emergency meeting under the Asia Zero Emission Community framework, Mines and Energy Minister Keo Rottanak said Cambodia fully supports the initiative, which seeks to mitigate oil supply shocks and boost regional preparedness.

The plan includes financing crude procurement, maintaining supply chains and developing stockpiling systems, alongside longer-term measures such as expanding storage, diversifying sources and advancing efficiency. Backed by about $10 billion in financial cooperation, POWERR Asia is expected to reinforce resilience against disruptions, particularly those affecting critical routes like the Strait of Hormuz.

Cambodia stressed the need for immediate financial and technical support, as well as forward-looking steps such as regional oil reserves.

The initiative also aligns with Asia’s decarbonization goals by linking energy security with economic resilience under the Asia Zero Emission Community.

The online meeting, hosted by Japan’s Sanae Takaichi, brought together leaders and representatives from across Asia and international organizations. Participants agreed the region remains highly exposed to external shocks due to reliance on imported energy and interconnected supply chains, underscoring the urgency of stronger cooperation.

The framework marks a significant step toward building a more resilient and secure energy future for Asia.