THE United States is fully committed to supporting the development of the Philippines’ nuclear sector with a comprehensive, whole-of-government approach, US Ambassador to Manila MaryKay Carlson said.
She said that 16 American companies representing all parts of the nuclear supply chain gathered in Manila to explore trade and investment opportunities that support Philippine energy needs.
The ambassador on Wednesday said that the group includes some of the most innovative companies and institutions in the US.
US Ambassador to Manila MaryKay Carlson. PHOTOS BY J. GERARD SEGUIA
“They are here to learn about the Philippines and explore potential partnerships. I hope many of you will take the opportunity to meet the members of the delegation during this event,” she said.
She said that the US delegation “is but one example of how the United States is ramping up its commercial engagement in the Philippines nuclear energy sector.”
“I recall President [Ferdinand] Marcos’ first State of the Nation Address shortly after I arrived in Manila in July 2022. He spoke about reassessing the country’s strategy for nuclear power,” Carlson said.
“Just six months later, our two countries began negotiations on a civil nuclear agreement — also known as a 123 Agreement,” she said in a speech during the Philippine International Civil Nuclear Supply Chain Forum.
Less than a year after that, Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken signed the agreement in San Francisco. It was the “fastest conclusion of 123 Agreement negotiations in US history,” Carlson said.
“As we often say, the US-Philippines relationship is on ‘hyperdrive.’ Today, our bilateral relationship is propelling forward faster than ever, strengthened by our burgeoning cooperation — and a focus on civil nuclear energy is a key part of what is powering our momentum,” she said.
Be the first to comment