EMGF Secretary General Osama Mobarez had a series of highly productive engagements at Gastech. He participated in a Global Leadership Panel focused on "Driving Purposeful Industry Progress on Methane Reduction," industry leaders gathered to discuss critical challenges and opportunities in addressing methane emissions.
Osama Mobarez, Secretary General of the East Mediterranean Gas Forum (EMGF), opened the discussion by stating, "Methane emissions abatement is the first thing we should look into, as it also comes with the lowest costs compared to other emission reductions. A key point in this endeavor is how we can engage technologies and push for research into new technologies that can support projects related to methane emissions abatement."
The panel featured prominent voices in the energy sector, including Toby Z. Rice, President & CEO of EQT Corporation, Didier Holleaux, EVP of ENGIE, Paul Krishna, Chair of Ipieca, and Zubin Bamji, Programme Manager for Global Flaring & Methane Reduction at The World Bank. Together, they addressed several key topics impacting methane reduction initiatives.
One major discussion point was the challenge of accurately measuring methane emissions and pinpointing their sources. While advancements in AI and drone technology are providing new solutions, the panel emphasized that significant hurdles remain. Additionally, the lack of robust policy support was highlighted as a barrier to effective action, with current regulations often insufficient to drive meaningful change.
Notably, SG Mobarez participated in the Gastech Leadership Roundtable titled "Egypt: Shaping a Pragmatic and Realistic Energy Future," hosted by HE Karim Badawi, Minister of Petroleum & Mineral Resources, Egypt. During these insightful discussions, Mobarez emphasized that Egypt's progress in energy will positively impact the East Mediterranean region, fostering greater cooperation and integration—a cornerstone for collective prosperity.
He reaffirmed that the East Mediterranean Gas Forum remains steadfast in supporting Egypt and all member countries in achieving a sustainable and thriving energy landscape. Collaborating with Egypt and leveraging its potential infrastructure and gas resources will further help accomplish the forum's objectives, marking a significant step towards regional energy resilience.