Australian ambassador seeks cooperation with Japan on energy

Australian Ambassador to Japan Andrew Shearer voiced optimism on Wednesday regarding increased collaboration with Japan, especially in the energy domain, given the rising economic pressure from China in the Asia-Pacific region. At a press conference at the Japan National Press Club in Tokyo, Shearer highlighted that Australia is Japan's primary supplier of liquefied natural gas (LNG).

He emphasized Australia's unwavering commitment to fulfilling LNG delivery obligations to Japan, even during financial crises, pandemics, and periods of global instability. Shearer underscored the complementary nature of their economies, praising Australia's resource contribution and Japan's technological, innovative, capital, and manufacturing expertise.

He envisioned this synergy as pivotal in shaping the energy systems of the future, advocating for enhanced cooperation in renewable energy. Notably, Australia plans to deploy an upgraded version of the Maritime Self-Defense Force's Mogami-class frigate under its next-generation naval frigate construction program. Shearer remarked on the unexpectedness of Australia selecting a Japanese-designed warship a generation ago, now viewed as a natural outcome of strategic trust.

Shearer, who assumed his position in February, is a seasoned national security expert who has held significant roles at the Australian Embassy in the United States and the Australian defense minister's office. From 2020 to 2025, he served as director-general of Australia's Office of National Intelligence.