Qatar Energy Minister Urges Gas Exporters to Oppose Trade Barriers at GECF Doha Meeting

At the 27th Ministerial Meeting of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) in Doha, Qatar's Minister of State for Energy Affairs, HE Eng. Saad bin Sherida Al Kaabi, emphasized the necessity to oppose trade barriers and discriminatory measures that negatively impact energy products, especially natural gas. He highlighted a positive outlook for natural gas and liquefied natural gas (LNG) despite geopolitical tensions and faltering climate policies, driven by economic growth in Asia and rising energy demands from data centers and artificial intelligence. Al Kaabi reaffirmed Qatar's commitment to collaborate with member countries to promote natural gas as a key enabler for cleaner, more affordable energy. The meeting discussed the important role of natural gas in the ongoing energy transition and aimed to foster dialogue between producers and consumers to ensure market stability and supply security. Al Kaabi's statements also indirectly referenced pressures on the European Union regarding sustainability rules that could affect LNG trade. Overall, Qatar continues to advocate for natural gas as a vital component in global efforts toward cleaner energy access.