In a vital moment for regional energy cooperation, Kuwait reaffirmed its strong commitment to transforming the Arab Energy Organization (AEO), formerly known as OAPEC, into a more inclusive and forward-looking institution during the organization’s 114th Council of Ministers meeting.
The meeting, which convened yesterday at the delegates’ level of energy and oil ministers, was chaired by Sheikh Dr. Nimr Al-Malik Al-Sabah, Kuwait’s Undersecretary of the Ministry of Oil and representative to the AEO’s Executive Office.
A major outcome of the session was the approval of the organization’s final accounts for 2024, marking a step forward in administrative clarity and financial oversight.
In his opening address, Al-Sabah highlighted Kuwait’s unwavering support for the organization, emphasizing the country’s provision of all facilities necessary to enhance AEO’s institutional environment. “Kuwait will spare no effort in supporting the development of the organization and expanding its activities to keep pace with rapid regional and international changes,” he affirmed.
Framing the development of the AEO as a strategic national and regional priority, Al-Sabah noted that the ongoing restructuring aligns with Kuwait’s sustainable development vision and the evolving global energy landscape. He stressed that the next phase represents a “turning point” for the organization, aiming to extend its role beyond oil and gas into the broader domains of traditional and renewable energy.
“Kuwait fully supports the organization’s evolution into a platform that reflects the dynamic realities of the energy sector,” he said, noting the importance of institutional reform, technical modernization, and expanded partnerships.
Al-Sabah praised the specialized committee leading the restructuring efforts and commended the role of Secretary-General Jamal Al-Loughani for his team’s professional execution of the restructuring process.
This included implementing the second phase of the project in line with Resolution 3/113, adopting a framework for 15 strategic initiatives, and selecting the consulting firm tasked with their implementation.
Secretary-General Al-Loughani echoed these sentiments, thanking the Kuwaiti government for its leadership and hospitality, which he said played a critical role in the success of the meeting.
The Council also adopted the Executive Office’s recommendations on a wide range of items. It reviewed updates on global oil markets, environmental and climate issues, and information systems, and called for intensified research and outreach.
Furthermore, it extended the deadline for submissions to the AEO Scientific Research Award 2024 to the end of July 2025, allowing broader participation from researchers across the Arab world.
The discussions marked a clear message: the Arab Energy Organization is preparing to become a cornerstone for pan-Arab integration in a rapidly evolving energy world — and Kuwait is at the forefront of that transformation.
