The Organization of Arab Petroleum Exporting Countries (OAPEC), in cooperation with Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Energy, launched the third seminar on pathways to reducing carbon emissions in downstream oil industries.
The two-day event, running on October 14-15 at Riyadh Front Exhibition and Conference Center, is being held on the sidelines of the 25th World Petroleum Congress. In his opening address, OAPEC Secretary-General Khaled Al-Otaibi said the seminar reflected the organization’s commitment to supporting technical dialogue and strengthening regional cooperation.
He highlighted the importance of balanced policies, effective technologies and sustainable investment in meeting growing demand for petroleum products, improving efficiency and reducing carbon emissions. Al-Otaibi stressed that downstream oil industries would remain central to OAPEC’s work because of their added value, contribution to industrial development and role in enhancing the competitiveness of Arab economies.
He also expressed appreciation to Saudi Minister of Energy Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman Al Saud for hosting and sponsoring the seminar, commending his support for constructive dialogue, knowledge-sharing and cooperation to advance the energy sector.
In turn, Saudi Deputy Minister of Energy for Sustainability and Climate Change Khaled AlMuhaideb underscored the importance of regional cooperation and adopting pathways suited to each country’s national circumstances. He highlighted the role of carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS), artificial intelligence, and a circular carbon economy approach in improving efficiency and managing emissions while considering energy security and affordability.
The seminar brings together representatives from government bodies, companies, academic and research institutions, and regional and international organizations to exchange expertise and explore practical solutions to reduce carbon emissions in downstream oil industries.
— KUNA
