OPEC International Seminar Focuses on Energy Transition, Calls for Strengthening Global Cooperation

Vienna, July 9 (Xinhua) — The 9th International Symposium of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) opened on July 9 at the Hofburg Palace in the capital of Austria, Vienna. The attending representatives focused on energy transformation and called for joint efforts to address the challenges of energy and climate change.
This seminar will last for two days, with the theme of “Jointly Planning the Path: The Future of Global Energy”. During the conference, multiple ministerial level meetings and high-level roundtable forums will be held to discuss global energy market trends, energy security and investment, as well as addressing climate change and sustainable development. The flagship report “World Petroleum Outlook 2025” will also be released.
OPEC Secretary General Haytham Ghesse said at the opening ceremony that 2025 is a milestone for OPEC, as it marks both the 65th anniversary of the organization’s founding and the 60th anniversary of its headquarters in Vienna. How to reduce carbon emissions while achieving energy security, improving energy accessibility, and reducing global energy poverty is the core topic of this seminar.
Saudi Energy Minister Abdulaziz bin Salman Al Saud stated that energy transition is not a threat, but an opportunity to drive innovation, investment, and economic development. More cooperation and coordination are needed between energy producing countries, consuming countries, and international energy institutions.
Austrian Federal Minister of Economy, Energy and Tourism Wolfgang Hartmansdorf stated that the energy industry is undergoing a profound transformation, which is one of the major changes facing society today. We have seen significant progress in renewable energy, with new installed capacity reaching new highs and electric vehicle sales continuing to rise. He called on all countries to work together and explore a responsible, inclusive, and secure path for the future of global energy.
Iran’s Oil Minister Mohsen Ahmadinejad, who holds the rotating presidency of OPEC, urged countries to commit to peace and cooperation to ensure safe and sustainable energy supply through a video message.
The first International Symposium of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries was held in September 2001. As one of the most influential platforms for dialogue and cooperation in the energy industry, this seminar attracted numerous ministers from OPEC member countries, representatives from major energy producing and consuming countries, as well as heads of international organizations, executives from energy companies and financial institutions, and experts and scholars.