Kuwait hosts OAPEC council, pledges continued support for regional energy cooperation
Oil Minister Tariq Al-Roumi reaffirmed Kuwait’s full support for all initiatives undertaken by the Organization of Arab Petroleum Exporting Countries (OAPEC), stressing that such efforts strengthen the organization’s ability to keep pace with rapid global transformations in the energy sector.
He described the meeting of the OAPEC Council of Ministers as a key milestone in enhancing Arab cooperation in oil and energy, particularly amid accelerating challenges that require unified visions, stronger coordination among member states, and collective action to support market stability and reinforce the organization’s regional and international standing, reports Al-Rai daily.
Speaking at the opening of the Council’s meeting, which began in Kuwait with the participation of oil and energy ministers and heads of delegations from member states, Al-Roumi welcomed Syrian Energy Minister Mohammed Al-Bashir, marking his first participation in the Council’s meetings after Syria’s absence for about a year.
He congratulated him on renaming his portfolio to the Ministry of Energy and wished Syria continued stability and prosperity.
Al-Roumi expressed his appreciation to the OAPEC General Secretariat for its efforts in preparing and organizing the meeting, noting that the comprehensive arrangements contributed to its success.
He said the agenda includes key issues affecting the organization, such as discussing the draft 2026 budget, reviewing progress on OAPEC’s development project, following up on updates to systems and regulations, and examining initiatives, strategies, and developments related to the oil and energy sectors.
The minister emphasized that Kuwait’s position reflects the directives of the country’s wise political leadership, represented by His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad and His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled, and is backed by the direct support of His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmed Al-Abdullah.
