In a meeting held in Tokyo on Wednesday, Sep 7, Japan's Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Yoshio Hachiro has asked assistance from Australia's Minister for Resources, Energy and Tourism, Martin Ferguson in acquiring coal and other resources for power-generation needs, NHK World report says.

Japan's request for more fossil fuels is due to a rising demand after the government reviewed the country's mid- and long term energy policy following the March 11 9.0 magnitude earthquake and realized the ensuing crises.

Hachiro is quoted on the news emphasizing that Australia is already a supplier of Japan's coal and other natural resources, but he wants that the two countries maintain their good relations as Japan develops its new energy policy.

Ferguson responded affirmatively assuring everyone in the meeting that both Australia and Japan have long enjoyed a trusting relationship especially when it comes to energy, AP said in its report.

In addition, Ferguson took advantage of the opportunity to air his concern that the world will soon face the problem of how to mitigate carbon dioxide emissions from fossil fuel-driven power plants, and Australia is expecting cooperation from Japan