East Asia Countries Implement Measures To Combat Energy Concerns
East Asia is feeling the pain as war in the Middle East continues to see energy supplies cut off. US President Donald Trump says the war that's led to these energy cuts will be over soon, but for now, countries around the region are doing what they can to keep running.
Middle East War Sparks Global Energy Crisis
REPORTER:
In the Oval Office, US President Donald Trump is speaking about the US-Israeli war with Iran. With the Middle East in turmoil and oil prices soaring, it’s a pressing issue. Trump says it will all be over soon.
Donald Trump (US PRESIDENT):
I would say that within two weeks, maybe two weeks, maybe three. We're hitting them very hard.
REPORTER:
Even if that’s true, though—and even if Iran unblocks the critical Strait of Hormuz to let fuel back into the world, it will take time for supplies to return to normal—and to rebuild damaged infrastructure.
REPORTER:
Some countries in regions like East Asia are in crisis management mode—with measures like expanding the use of coal-fired plants.
REPORTER:
In South Korea, flag carrier Korean Air is shifting to what it calls an emergency operating system as it expects major disruptions to its annual business goals. Airfares on routes linking Seoul and North American cities, are set to jump 200%.
REPORTER:
And in Indonesia, there will be limits on how much gas motorists can buy—and measures for government workers to work from home.
Airlangga Hartarto (INDONESIAN COORDINATING ECONOMY MINISTER):
This policy includes a number of steps, such as a work from home rule for civil servants in central and regional institutions for one day each week on Fridays.
REPORTER:
Amid the turmoil, Indonesia’s president has visited Japan for talks with Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae. The two countries are in agreement: cooperation on energy supplies and ending the war.
Takaichi Sanae (JAPANESE PRIME MINISTER):
Regarding the Middle East situation, we agreed that the two countries will keep close ties on energy security.
Prabowo Subianto (INDONESIAN PRESIDENT):
We've agreed that Indonesia and Japan will work hard to urge all parties involved to deescalate and we are ready to become mediators if needed.
REPORTER:
As East Asia braces, it will be watching an address Trump is set to make on the war in Iran—looking for signs this energy crisis may be heading towards an end.
