As a unique instrument for the promotion of international cooperation in the energy sector, the International Energy Charter Treaty (ECT) provides a multilateral framework for energy cooperation that is unique under international law. It is designed to promote energy security through the operation of more open and competitive energy markets while respecting the principles of sustainable development and sovereignty over energy resources.
The International Energy Charter Treaty (ECT) is a legally binding multilateral agreement dealing with intergovernmental cooperation in the energy sector, covering the whole energy value chain (from exploration to end use) and all energy products and energy-related equipment. The ECT was signed on 17 December 1994 and entered into legal force on 16 April 1998.
Until February 2019, the ECT has been signed or acceded to by 55 states, the European Union, and Euratom. However, two states – Italy and the Russian Federation – have.
