The Japanese and US governments signed Saturday a statement of intent to work together...
The Japanese and US governments signed Saturday a statement of intent to work together to develop methane hydrate production.
The agreement was signed by US Energy Secretary Samuel Bodman and Japan's Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, Akira Amari, ahead of a G8 energy ministerial meeting in Aomori City, northern Japan.
In a statement, the two countries said the proposed cooperation would enhance understanding of gas hydrates and speed up research into their exploration and development.
The statement of intent covers an initial period of cooperation of three years, which may be extended.
The world is estimated to contain huge reserves of methane hydrates, a potential source of unconventional gas, but one which has not yet been tapped by any country.
Gas hydrates, ice-like deposits of water and natural gas, are located deep underwater where cold temperatures and extreme pressure causes natural gas to condense into semi-solid form.
