A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate on the discussion by the North Atlantic Council of secure, sustainable, and reliable sources of energy.

Mr. President, I rise today to submit a resolution that calls upon the United States to lead the discussion at NATO headquarters of the role the alliance could play in energy security. It further calls upon the President to submit to Congress a report that details ``a strategy for NATO to develop secure, sustainable, and reliable sources of energy, including contingency plans if current energy resources are put at risk.''

NATO is now facing new challenges and new priorities. To be fully relevant to the security and well-being of the people of its member nations, NATO must think and act globally.

International developments are calling attention to the growing importance of energy security for NATO member countries and other nonmember partners. Dependence on imports of oil and natural gas from limited numbers of countries with state-controlled reserves makes NATO member countries vulnerable to political manipulation of supply. On a global scale, increased competition for finite supplies of oil and gas could lead to conflict that would directly involve NATO member states. This is why the resolution urges that the United States energy security message to NATO members include attention toward sustainable fuels and preparedness for supply disruption.

As the alliance focuses on a clearer definition of its purpose in the 21st century, I believe that it is important to show congressional support for NATO playing a role in energy security.

Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Senate proceed to the consideration of Calendar No. 444, S. Res. 456.

Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the resolution be agreed to and the motion to reconsider be laid upon the table.