Energy security is a core element of the economic and environmental dimension under the OSCE's comprehensive concept of security. Indeed, energy is a core element of any economy. Efficient and sustainable energy policies are essential to underpin growth and maintain standards of living in industrialized countries.Reform and transparency in the energy sector are key to economic performance and social cohesion in the OSCE transition countries as well as a necessary condition for the sustainable development of emerging economies. Generalized access to energy at acceptable prices is one of the Millennium Development Goals aimed at overcoming poverty in many developing countries.It is no surprise, therefore, that a special subsection -2.1.21 -is dedicated to energy in the OSCE Strategy Document for the Economic and Environmental Dimension, adopted by the Ministerial Council in December 2003 in Maastricht. It states: 'We recognize that a high level of energy security requires a predictable, reliable, economically acceptable, commercially sound and environmentally friendly energy supply, which can be achieved by means of long-term contracts in appropriate cases. We will encourage energy dialogue and efforts to diversify energy supply, ensure the safety of energy routes, and make more efficient use of energy resources. We will also support further development and use of new and renewable sources of energy.'The events of the last 12 months have concentrated the attention of the media on two aspects of energy security that are not necessarily the most important ones; on the one side, the level and stability of prices, and, on the other, the geographical characteristics of oil and gas pipelines.Although these aspects are, no doubt, very important for energy security, the concept of energy security should be seen in a broader perspective, taking into account new and evolving risks.
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