U.S., Mexico in talks on energy cooperation
by The Associated Press
U.S. Energy Secretary Rick Perry called Mexico "a very, very important partner'" on energy, and noted that NAFTA did not cover energy when implemented in 1994
MEXICO CITY—The U.S. and Mexico are looking to augment energy ties as the two countries ready for a renegotiation of the North American Free Trade Agreement.
U.S. Energy Secretary Rick Perry visited Mexico on July 13 to meet with his counterpart, Pedro Joaquin Coldwell. Perry called Mexico “a very, very important partner” on energy.
Joaquin Coldwell said his country plans two pipelines to import U.S. natural gas in addition to the 17 that already exist.
Mexico’s energy sector was wholly state-run for decades until a 2013 energy overhaul allowed some private-sector activity, and Perry noted that NAFTA did not cover energy when the trade pact was implemented in 1994.
He said renegotiating NAFTA “is good for all participants, particularly in the energy sector.”
The talks will also include Canada, NAFTA’s third partner.
