Biden: ‘Energy should serve as tool for cooperation, stability and prosperity’

Biden issues a statement on the Israeli-Lebanese accord, calling it “a historic breakthrough in the Middle East.”

“Energy — particularly in the Eastern Mediterranean — should serve as the tool for cooperation, stability, security and prosperity, not for conflict,” he says. “The agreement announced by both governments today will provide for the development of energy fields for the benefit of both countries, setting the stage for a more stable and prosperous region, and harnessing vital new energy resources for the world.

“It is now critical that all parties uphold their commitments and work towards implementation.”

He says the deal “protects Israel’s security and economic interests critical to promoting its regional integration” while providing Lebanon “the space to begin its own exploitation of energy resources.”