Deputy Minister of Oil: Committed to supporting the Gulf energy sector and enhancing coordination on regional and international issues - Sarmad

(KUNA) – Kuwait’s Undersecretary of Oil, Sheikh Dr. Namar Fahad Al-Malal Al-Sabah, affirmed on Monday that Kuwait is keen to continue its role in supporting joint Gulf cooperation in the energy sector and enhancing coordination among GCC member states on regional and international issues, in order to safeguard shared interests and bolster the security, stability, and sustainability of energy supplies.

This statement came in a press release issued by the Ministry of Oil following its participation in the 20th meeting of the Committee of Undersecretaries for Petroleum Cooperation of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, held via video conferencing.

Sheikh Namar Al-Sabah highlighted the importance of continuing work through specialized technical committees and teams to translate Gulf policy directions and decisions into practical programs and initiatives, and to strengthen integration and coordination among GCC member states in the face of developments and changes affecting the energy sector.

He said the meeting discussed several topics and files related to advancing joint Gulf cooperation in the energy sector, addressing a range of strategic issues that reflect the broad scope of Gulf cooperation in the sector.

He added that these topics included the updated energy strategy, energy security, a just and balanced transition, the regional emergency plan for petroleum products, as well as relevant international legislative and commercial developments.

He clarified that the meeting explored ways to develop GCC coordination mechanisms to keep pace with the rapid regional and international changes in the energy sector, emphasizing the importance of sustained joint efforts to support energy security, reliability, and sustainability of supplies, while also taking into account the national priorities and circumstances of GCC member states.

Sheikh Namar Al-Sabah noted that the meeting also discussed the updated energy strategy, which represents a broader framework for Gulf cooperation in the sector and encompasses various energy sources, alongside the importance of aligning the work of relevant committees and technical teams to transform their objectives into actionable and monitorable programs and work plans.

He added that the regional emergency plan for petroleum products was among the files discussed as part of efforts to enhance Gulf preparedness and raise the level of coordination among competent authorities to handle emergencies and disruptions that could affect supplies and supply chains.

He pointed out that developments related to cross-border European legislation and measures, and their potential impacts on the energy sector and companies of GCC member states, were also discussed.