New York, NY (BBN) – Ensuring global energy security requires stepped-up investment, a top official from Turkmenistan, one of the world’s major oil and natural gas producers, told the General Assembly’s high-level annual debate on Monday.

As a top producer, the Central Asian country takes part in increasing international cooperation regarding energy, Rashid Meredov, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs, said, according to a UN press statement.

“Turkmenistan’s policy aimed at diversifying supplies of hydrocarbon raw materials and ensuring energy security has become an important element of this approach,” he noted.

Other key factors in guaranteeing adequate supplies to the world include political stability and global markets, Mr. Meredov told delegates.

The official said that Turkmenistan has launched an initiative to create an international agreement, under United Nations auspices, on the security of international pipelines, the statement added.

BBN/SI/SS/AD-30September08-3:47 PM (BST)