U.S. Undersecretary of State: U.S. and Russia not to have "Great Game" for energy resources - UPDATE

"The U.S. does not believe that is maturing "great game" between America and Russia for energy resources of the Central Asian countries. It is our firm belief that we can gain more by working together than against one another," U.S. Undersecretary of State for Political Affairs William Burns said speaking at the Azerbaijani Diplomatic Academy.

The U.S. Embassy in Azerbaijan spread his speech.

"While there are always elements of competition in energy matters, as in any commercial area, the U.S. does not believe that energy security is a zero-sum game," Burns said.

He said greater interconnectivity maximizes diverse sources and routes, ensures better market pricing, and protects against supply disruptions, for the good of all countries.

Today, Europe considers the Central Asia's energy resources as an alternative source, allowing it to reduce its dependence on gas imports from Russia, which will allow EU to increase its energy security. Europe and the U.S. support the Southern Corridor project that would bring gas from Central Asia to the EU on alternative routes.

Feb. 20
09:21

President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev received U.S. Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs William Burns on Feb. 19.

The President said Azerbaijan and the United States had high-level partner relations in various spheres, and expressed confidence that they will continue to develop.

The President noted William Burns' current visit would contribute to expanding relationship between the two countries.

For his part, William Burns said his country attaches great importance to relationship with Azerbaijan, adding Washington is determined to strengthen it.

They also touched upon the Armenia-Azerbaijan, Nagorno Karabakh conflict, bilateral energy cooperation and regional and international issues.

/AzerTac/