US official to talk energy security with Russia, France

WASHINGTON: US Under Secretary of State for Economic, Business and Agricultural Affairs Reuben Jeffery will discuss with the Russian and French leadership a wide range of issues related to ensuring energy security, financial stability, transparency, maintenance of a favourable investment climate, trade and activities of the Group of Eight.

The State Department press service announced yesterday that Jeffrey, who is also deputy personal representative of the US president for G8 affairs, will stay in Moscow and Paris from July 16 to 20.

He is expected to hold consultations with the political leaders and leaders of the private sector. In addition, the American emissary will hold meetings with representatives of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development and the International Energy Agency.