CommentRegional energy safety net projects may finally gain tractionJapanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi discusses energy cooperation with Asia-Pacific leaders on April 15. Her POWERR Asia initiative is centered on financial support and the establishment of an oil stockpiling system. (Cabinet Public Affairs Office)TORU TAKAHASHIMay 3, 2026 09:52 JSTTOKYO -- Hastily assembled under intense time pressure, Japan's new energy security initiative aimed at fostering regional cooperation in Asia has emerged with a surprisingly catchy name.