At the 17th International Energy Forum Ministerial Meeting held in Riyadh, Qatar’s Minister of State for Energy Affairs and head of QatarEnergy, Saad Sherida Al Kaabi, emphasized the necessity of keeping energy security insulated from geopolitical tensions. Al Kaabi urged the global community to develop a framework that safeguards energy supplies from the influence of political conflicts, underscoring the importance of protecting energy infrastructure.
Al Kaabi’s remarks came amid a backdrop of rising regional conflicts, which he noted have led to a significant energy crisis worldwide. According to him, these conflicts have disrupted the flow of about 20 percent of the world’s hydrocarbon supplies, causing severe repercussions for the global economy. He highlighted that attacks on energy infrastructure have resulted in billions of dollars in damages and have contributed to increased market volatility.
The minister called for enhanced international cooperation to ensure energy security and stability. He pointed out that energy security is intrinsically tied to geopolitical stability, making it a critical factor for global economic health. Al Kaabi’s comments were a call to action for nations to come together in strengthening supply chains and securing reliable energy flows, especially as regional tensions rise.
The conference in Riyadh brought together various stakeholders, including energy ministers, government officials, industry leaders, and international organizations, all focused on addressing key issues such as supply chain resilience and shifting global energy demand and supply trends. Al Kaabi expressed Qatar’s solidarity with Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the shared responsibility in maintaining energy security and stability in the region.