Qatar’s Energy Vision is a Call for a Balanced and Inclusive Future

At a recent event in India, Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi, Qatar’s Minister of State for Energy Affairs and the President and CEO of QatarEnergy, emphasized the necessity of a diversified and balanced global energy mix. He stressed that a “realistic energy transition” must consider each country’s economic growth strategies, energy needs, and environmental goals rather than adopting a one-size-fits-all approach.

Al-Kaabi highlighted the urgent issue of energy poverty, noting that over a billion people worldwide still lack access to basic electricity. He pointed out that, with the global population projected to increase by 1.5 to 2 billion by 2050, the expanding middle class would further drive energy demand. Given these factors, he argued that the world must ensure an ample energy supply by utilizing oil, gas, and renewable resources to create a resilient long-term energy mix. He emphasized that all available energy sources would be necessary to meet future demand.

The head of Qatar’s state energy company also underscored the importance of sustained investment in the oil and gas sector to meet rising energy needs and prevent price volatility caused by supply disruptions.

His remarks came just two months after he voiced criticism of the European Union’s new directive, which signals a rapid shift toward stringent sustainability policies. He suggested that, while environmental goals are important, many nations continue to prioritize energy security over an immediate transition to net zero.

Addressing concerns about U.S.-Qatari energy relations, Al-Kaabi asserted that the strong partnership between the two nations transcends political administrations. He did not express any apprehension regarding President Donald Trump’s plans to expand U.S. liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports. He also dismissed the notion that vilifying energy producers would contribute to solving environmental challenges or ensuring affordable energy access.

Aligning with its CEO’s strategic vision, QatarEnergy has been expanding its energy portfolio. The company secured multiple deals in 2024, including an agreement with Harmattan Energy Limited (HEL), an indirect subsidiary of Chevron Corporation, for a stake in an exploration block off the coast of Namibia.

Have you read?
World’s Best Countries To Invest In Or Do Business.
World’s Most Startup-Friendly Countries.
World’s Best Countries For Quality of Life.
Largest Economies Europe In 2024.
GDP of the BRICS countries (2000 to 2028).