At the 17th International Energy Forum Ministerial Meeting in Riyadh, Qatar’s Minister of State for Energy Affairs and QatarEnergy President and CEO Saad Sherida Al Kaabi emphasized the need to keep energy security above political conflicts. Al Kaabi highlighted the severe global energy crisis triggered by ongoing regional conflicts, which have disrupted the flow of about 20 percent of the world’s hydrocarbon supplies.
Al Kaabi called for a global energy framework that separates energy supplies from political disputes to protect energy infrastructure from conflict-related damage. He pointed out that attacks on energy infrastructure have resulted in billions of dollars in damage, escalating volatility in international markets. According to Al Kaabi, energy security is intrinsically linked to geopolitical stability and is essential for the global economy.
Expressing Qatar’s solidarity with Saudi Arabia, Al Kaabi underscored the importance of international cooperation to maintain energy security. He urged for stronger international efforts to protect energy assets, bolster supply chains, and ensure reliable energy supplies amid rising regional tensions.
The meeting in Riyadh gathered energy ministers, government representatives, industry leaders, and international organizations to discuss critical issues such as energy security, supply chain resilience, and the evolving dynamics of global demand and supply. Al Kaabi’s remarks come at a time when the energy sector faces significant challenges, highlighting the need for coordinated efforts to address these issues effectively.