MEXICO CITY (AP) — U.S. Energy Secretary Rick Perry says he supports the plans of Mexican President-elect Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador to increase the country's energy independence, even if it could mean fewer purchases from U.S. refineries.

The U.S. is opening new markets for its energy products daily and having Mexico develop its own energy resources will only benefit North America's economic security, Perry said.

Perry spoke to reporters Wednesday in Mexico City after meeting with Lopez Obrador's pick to become Mexico's energy secretary, Rocio Nahle. He spoke on condition the remarks would n...