Quad nations agreed to endorse development of hydrogen, ammonia

At the first energy meeting of the Quad nations, Japan, the US, Australia and India have agreed to promote technological development for clean-burning hydrogen and ammonia as fuels.

Energy ministers from the four countries gathered in Sydney, affirming the importance of enhancing the clean energy supply chain and ensuring energy security. The US and Australia are moving forward with large-scale hydrogen production projects with the goal of shipping hydrogen to India and Japan.

The delegates did not engage in an in-depth discussion over the response to Russia’s war with Ukraine. Koichi Hagiuda, Japan’s minister of economy, trade and industry, said there was no specific mention of sanctions against Russia.

The four members of the Quad have had different positions on Russia. While Japan, the US and Australia have aligned on sanctions, India has expanded purchases of Russian petroleum without joining sanctions.