Tanker attack to be discussed at G-20 ministerial meeting on energy

An attack on two tankers in the Gulf of Oman this week will be discussed at a meeting of G20 energy and environment ministers these weekend, Japan’s industry minister Hiroshige Seko said.

"Maintaining energy security is something we can share with other ministers and is an important policy issue to be discussed at the G20 energy ministerial meeting," the minister said at a regular press conference.

"The Middle East is a key area for global energy security. We want to talk with other ministers about our concerns about global security and threats," Reuters cited Seko as saying.

Seko declined to comment on remarks by U.S. officials blaming Iran for the attacks, saying Japan was still investigating details of the incident.

In addition, Seko said the attack would not affect Japan’s energy supplies.

Two tankers, one operated by a Japanese shipping company, were attacked in the Gulf on Thursday. The United States blamed Iran for the attacks, raising concerns about a new U.S.-Iranian confrontation and driving up oil prices. Tehran denied involvement.

The ministerial meeting of the Group of 20 major economies will be held in Karuizawa on June 15-16, in the run up to the G20 summit to be held in Osaka on June 28-29.