May 'double' cost of Alaska pipeline project: Trump warns South Korea

WASHINGTON, Oct 3: US President Donald Trump warned South Korea  that he could "double" the cost of participating in a proposed Alaska pipeline project if Seoul does not commit soon, after being told that the country is  still reviewing the plan.

Trump initially said, "he is prepared to accept a decision by Seoul not to participate."

"Well, I didn't jump the gun. I mean, they were there and, uh, they were represented, and let's see. If they don't wanna do it, that's okay with me," Trump made the remarks to reporters at the White House before boarding Marine One when asked South Korea had not yet formally approved participation in the project and is still studying the proposal and "did US jump the gun

"I'll just charge 'em more," he added.

Trump then sought clarification, asking, "Wait, no. Wait, they said they didn't sign off "

After the reporter confirmed that South Korea is still reviewing the proposal, Trump issued a stronger warning.

"Tell 'em if they don't sign shortly, I'm going to double it up. Okay " he said.

Trump did not explain what specifically would be doubled or set out a deadline for South Korea to make a decision.

The proposed Alaska pipeline project is intended to transport natural gas from Alaska's North Slope to a liquefaction facility in southern Alaska, where the gas could be processed for export. Asian countries have been identified as potential markets because of their reliance on imported energy.

The Alaska LNG project is a proposed $44.5 billion to $54.5 billion development to transport natural gas from Alaska's North Slope in the state's far north through a pipeline to domestic consumers and, ultimately, an export terminal for overseas buyers. (UNI)