Productive EMGF Mission to Brussels
EMGF Secretary General concluded a productive business mission to Brussels.
During the mission, SG Mobarez met with several EU Commission Executives, to broaden and strengthen the EMGF-EU Energy & Climate cooperation.
Fruitful meetings were conducted with Mr. Matthew Baldwin- Deputy Director-General DG Energy, Mr. Stefano Grassi, Head of Head of European Energy Commissioner Cabinet, Ms. Maria Cristina Russo- Director for International Relations- DG Research & Innovation,Ms. Angelina Eichhorst- Managing director of EU External Action Service, Mr. Florian Ermacora- Head of Unit, NEAR, European Commission, Mr. François-Régis Mouton- IOGP Regional Director, Ms. Maja-Alexandra Dittel- Deputy Head of Unit – International Carbon Markets, Aviation and Maritime (DG Clima).
During the meetings, EMGF SG reaffirmed the strong basis and foundation EMGF & EU share on different energy files, as the EU has been supporting the EMGF since its inception, and the two entities share a common determination to combat climate change and environmental degradation, while fostering sustainable development, energy security and a balanced and just green transition.
EMGF Secretary General meets with Cyprus Minister of Energy, Commerce & Industry
EMGF Secretary General Osama Mobarez held a bilateral meeting with H.E. George Papanastasiou- Minister of Energy, Commerce & Industry for the first time after H.E. Papanastasiou assumed his new post on March 2023.
During the meeting, SG Mobarez acknowledged Cyprus remarkable contribution in leading many EMGF activities last year during the presidency of the forum.
The meeting witnessed comprehensive discussions on the role of the East Med region in diversifying the world’s energy mix, and the region’s crucial role in improving global energy security and alleviating current energy market shortages in Europe.
On Europe day: EMGF SG reaffirms the forum’s commitment to strengthen partnership with the European union.
In celebration of Europe day, the EMGF Secretary General Osama Mobarez, reaffirmed the East Mediterranean Gas Forum commitment to further strengthening the forum’s strategic partnership with the European Union.
During the celebration event that was hosted by the Swedish Embassy in Cairo, SG Mobarez participated in a panel titled “Working together to resolve the Energy crisis” alongside with Mr. Christian Berger- Ambassador of the EU delegation to Egypt and Mr. Mattia Campanati- General Manager, IEOC Egypt.
“The EMGF is a living proof that energy security can be secured by fostering global cooperation and long-term trusted partnerships” said SG Mobarez
“A solid example of the implementation of the EMGF strategic objectives, was the signing of the tripartite memorandum of understanding between Egypt, Israel, and the EU last June, under which Israel will transport natural gas to the EU from Egypt after being liquified.” SG Mobarez added.
The Panelists reaffirmed throughout the panel, the importance of natural gas as a fuel that will guide our world through a successful energy transition, and reiterated on the significance of the Eastern Mediterranean as a region with promising gas resources and new discoveries are possible.
The event witnessed high level participation of H.E. Tarek El Molla, Minister of Petroleum & Mineral Resources, Ambassador Christian Berger, Ambassador of the EU Delegation, Ambassador Håkan Emsgård, Ambassador of Sweden.
EMGF SG conducts virtual briefing session with the Council for Mediterranean Diplomacy
The EMGF Secretary General Osama Mobarez conducted a virtual briefing session with the Council for Mediterranean Diplomacy “Diplomeds”.
During the briefing session, Secretary General Mobarez highlighted the crucial role of Energy in the current geopolitical uncertainties, and reaffirmed the urgent need to strengthen dialogue and cooperation to shape cohesive policies for the effective and inclusive Energy transition.
Diplomeds is a policy group that began operating a year and a half ago, with the goal of helping improve inter-state relations in the Mediterranean, and advance conflict resolution, regional cooperation and inclusivity.
Diplomeds includes nearly 40 experts from 15 countries in the Mediterranean, with backgrounds in diplomacy, policy and acadmia. They tackle specific policy issues via multi-national teams. Among Diplomeds key members are retired Egyptian Ambassadors Hesham Youssef and Abderahman Salaheldin.
The diplomatic briefing series is one of the key activities of Diplomeds, in which they regularly host key officials and top-notch experts for closed-door virtual briefings with community of experts, on issues related to Mediterranean diplomacy.
EMGF SG highlights the East Med imperative role in Energy Transition/Security at Delphi Economic Forum
The EMGF Secretary General Osama Mobarez participated today in the Delphi Economic Forum taking place in the ancient city of Delphi in Greece.
The Delphi Economic Forum is an annual event that gathers top leaders from across sectors in an effort to spark dialogue, inspire change, and transform conversation into action.
The EMGF SG participated as a speaker in a panel titled “Energy Avenues: The Role of the Eastern Mediterranean” alongside with H.E. Geoffrey Pyatt, Assistant Secretary of State for Energy Resources, U.S. Department of State, H.E. Ditte Juul Jørgensen, Director General for Energy, European Commission, Maria Rita Galli, CEO, DESFA, Kostis Sifnaios, Vice President & Managing Director, GASTRADE S.A. and Nikos Tsafos, Chief Energy Adviser to the Prime Minister of the Hellenic Republic.
During the Panel Secretary General Mobarez highlighted the imperative role of the East Mediterranean region in addressing the Energy challenges the world is facing nowadays. “The EMGF will continue intensifying bilateral and regional cooperation among EMGF member countries, to achieve economic development in the region through monetizing the gas resources of the region and help ensure a balanced energy transition grounded in energy security regionally and globally” said SG Mobarez.
EMGF Secretary General holds talks on Energy Market Outlooks during Greece visit
On the sideline of the Delphi Economic Forum, the EMGF Secretary General Osama Mobarez met with H.E. Kostas Skrekas- Minister of Environment and Energy and Mrs. Alexandra Sdoukou the Secretary General for Energy & Mineral Resources to discuss the East Med role in the current energy market dynamics.
During the meeting, H.E Kostas Skrekas acknowledged the East Mediterranean Gas Forum role in the current unique geopolitical circumstances, highlighting that the EMGF is a living example of how the Eastern Mediterranean can play a crucial role in helping the EU meet the demanding requirements of its Repower strategy, secure the energy supply and support the energy transition and climate action.
“Greece has been a prominent founder member in the East Mediterranean Gas Forum through its effective participation in many of the Forum’s activities, which was clearly reflected on the progress achieved during the past years, and we are looking forward to build on this momentum”. Said SG Mobarez
Other fruitful bilateral meetings were concluded with H.E. Ditte Juul Jørgensen, Director General for Energy, European Commission & IEA Deputy Executive Director to discuss proposed areas of cooperation and the support to the EMGF activities.
During the meetings, SG Mobarez highlighted that the global energy markets are facing an historic re-alignment, and it is vital that we keep dialogue between energy stakeholders to better understand the growing risks to energy security, market stability and the energy transition.
EMGF an endorsing partner in the Mediterranean Gas Exploration Symposium.
In line with the EMGF strategic objectives, which aims to develop partnerships with relevant organizations, and actively participate in relevant forums, we are delighted to announce that the EMGF has become an endorsing partner with the Society of Exploration Geophysicists (SEG) in the Mediterranean Gas Exploration Symposium taking place from 9–11 May 2023 in Alamein, Egypt, under the Patronage of H.E. Eng. Tarek El Molla, the Egypt Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources
The symposium is structured around panel sessions, keynote sessions, and technical and poster presentations where the delegates have the opportunity to network with and learn from leaders to provide an insight into the Mediterranean geological settings, basin scale structural and stratigraphic framework, and petroleum system models.
The event will also include a field trip in Western Desert, with the objective of providing an insight of the tectonostratigraphic framework and exploration in the northern Western Desert of Egypt. The field trip shall provide an excellent opportunity for peers to discuss, explore and invoke perspectives on the potential of the emerging East Mediterranean hydrocarbon province and gas hub.
EMGF a Partner organization in the 8th IEF-IGU Ministerial Gas Forum
Building on the Memorandum of Understanding that was signed last February between the East Mediterranean Gas Forum (EMGF) represented by Secretary General Osama Mobarez and the International Energy Forum (IEF) represented by Secretary General Joseph McMonigle, that aims to advance regional dialogue on gas market security and promote gas market transparency, the EMGF has become a partner organization for the 8th IEF-IGU Ministerial Gas Forum meeting, hosted by the Egyptian Ministry of Petroleum & Mineral Resources on May 29th 2023.
The 8th IEF-IGU Ministerial Gas Forum, aims to strengthen international collaboration to optimize gas markets for energy security, shared prosperity, and climate action, considering the extraordinary gas market, energy and climate policy dynamics, and the outcomes of the United Nations Climate Conference COP27.
The EMGF participation in the 8th IEF-IGU Ministerial Gas Forum panels and roundtables will further promote the increasing role of the East Mediterranean in supporting global energy security, and highlights the importance of gas in the Energy Transition.
The GIAC Economic Subcommittee organize the First Financing Workshop in Milan
On March 13th, the GIAC Economic Subcommittee organized the first financing workshop to discuss key solutions to the current Energy market challenges, and the finance fundamental role as an enabler to the Energy Transition.
The Event kicked off with an opening remark by the EMGF Secretary General Osama Mobarez, where he acknowledged the GIAC as an important dialogue platform within the EMGF, between Government representatives and industry players; including state owned entities, regulatory authorities, gas business enterprises, industry entities and international financial institutions, and recognized the valuable collaboration between the GIAC members which enabled the EMGF to conduct several important studies tackling Energy Security, Energy Transition and Decarbonization.
The event witnessed the participation of many prominent speakers on top of which Sergio Molisani, Snam EVP International Asset Management and BD and SVP Finance, Helmy Ghazi- Deputy CEO & Head of Global Banking Egypt HSBC, Salem Amr, Associate Banker EBRD, Stefano Venier, Snam CEO, Cristina Morelli- Managing Director – Head of Business Italia SACE, Tameer Nasser- Egypt Managing Director Baker Hughes.
The Bilateral Chamber of Commerce hosts Minister el Molla and SG Mobarez in Houston on the sideline of CERAWEEK
The Bilateral Chamber of Commerce hosted the 9th Annual Energy Egypt Forum in Houston, on the sideline of CERAWEEK.
The event keynote speakers were H.E. Tarek el Molla, Egyptian Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources and The EMGF Secretary General Osama Mobarez.
During the event, Ms. Aida Araissi, Founder and CEO of Bilateral Chamber of Commerce welcomed the attendees from the governmental and private sector and highlighted the importance of the Sharm el Sheikh Oil & Gas methane reduction roadmap announced by the Minister during Decarbonization day.
SG Mobarez in his keynote address stressed on the significance of the EMGF role in harmonization of regional efforts and stakeholder interests to reduce carbon footprint of natural gas production and distribution.
EMGF Secretary General engages with World Energy Leaders in CERAWEEK.
The EMGF Secretary General Osama Mobarez met with leaders across the Energy Industry this week during a series of high-level engagements in CERAWEEK.
SG Mobarez participated in a Round Table about Capturing Methane & Flared Gas with governmental officials and international Energy Companies, during which SecGen Mobarez highlighted that the EMGF decarbonization initiative provides a comprehensive approach to how any country can establish its own roadmap to reduce methane emissions through an integrated collaborative effort from governments, financial institutions, policy makers & different industrial sector organizations.
In the Executive Conference, SecGen Mobarez participated in a panel titled “What Is the Role of Gas in Transition & Security?” alongside with Colin Parfitt, Vice President, Midstream, Chevron, Paul Marsden, President, Bechtel Energy, Bechtel and Sanzhar Zharkeshov, Chairman of the Management Board, Qazaq Gaz, during which SG Mobarez highlighted the important and dynamic role that the Natural Gas will continue to play both regionally and globally, as it is considered one of the main solutions to the current Energy crisis, as it is the cleanest hydrocarbon fuel, a reliable and an affordable resource within the global energy mix.
In the Agora, SG Mobarez presented the EMGF Decarbonization report and its pillars alongside with Karim el Dessouky- Bechtel Egypt Country Manager and S&P representatives.
EMGF Secretary General emphasizing the importance of cooperation between the Forum’s Member Countries towards a green and just energy transition.
EMGF Secretary General Osama Mobarez participated in the 13th IEA-IEF-OPEC Symposium on Energy Outlooks, hosted by IEF at its Riyadh headquarters on 15 February 2023.
The joint producer—consumer dialogue event discussed the energy market volatility and the widening gap between normative and reference energy scenarios, which provided an opportunity to exchange points of view on their determinants, how they relate to other outlooks, and help deliver energy security, market stability, and sustainable development in reality.
During SG Mobarez participation as keynote speaker, he acknowledged the IEF, OPEC and IEA contribution in enriching the industry with significant analytical input and insights, and highlighted the imperative role of the EMGF in ensuring global energy security and sustainability.
The symposium also explored the trade-offs between affordability, sustainability, and economic growth and how these are impacted by the current crisis. Experts discussed how governments and industry are expected to re-evaluate policy and investment decisions to keep net-zero climate and sustainable development goals within reach. Participants were invited to discuss if it is possible to reduce costs of transition to protect consumers and broaden prospects for economic growth.
EMGF SG Conducted a series of productive Bilateral meetings on the sideline of EGYPS
The EMGF Secretary General Osama Mobarez conducted a series of productive meetings on the sideline of EGYPS.
These important meetings included: Ms. Dora Zombori- Deputy State Secretary for Energy Security-Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Hungary, Mr. Alessandro Puliti- Saipem CEO, Mr. Yaakov Blitstein- Director General Ministry of Energy, Mr. Paul Marsden President of Energy- Bechtel in addition to meetings with Paxon, DESFA and Worly.
During these meetings, EMGF SG Mobarez shared a brief about the EMGF and its objectives, establishment, founding Members, and highlighted the Long-term Strategy objectives and pillars, and discussed potential areas of cooperation with the EMGF.
Trilateral MoU First Ministerial Review Meeting
On February13th, the first Ministerial review meeting for the Trilateral MoU was conducted on the side line of Egypt Petroleum Show (EGYPS), with the presence of H.E. Kadri Simpson the EU Commissioner for Energy and Climate, H.E. Tarek el Molla Egyptian Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, H.E. Israel Katz the Israeli Minister of Energy and EMGF Secretary General Osama Mobariz.
During the meeting, SG Mobariz presented the efforts of the different working groups that have been formed from the MoU different parties to implement the MoU, and highlighted the significance of the trilateral MoU as a very important example of the implementation of the EMGF strategic objectives plan.
The EU Commissioner along with Egyptian and Israeli Ministers reaffirmed the importance of transforming this MoU into tangible results in a timely manner due to the current dilemma of securing gas supplies in some European countries.
The Trilateral MoU was signed in June 2022, during the 7th EMGF Ministerial Meeting, between Egypt, Israel, and the EU under which Israel will transport natural gas to the EU from Egypt after being liquified.
EMGF SG Conducted a series of productive Bilateral meetings on the sideline of EGYPS
The EMGF Secretary General Osama Mobarez conducted a series of productive meetings on the sideline of EGYPS.
These important meetings included: Ms. Dora Zombori- Deputy State Secretary for Energy Security-Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Hungary, Mr. Alessandro Puliti- Saipem CEO, Mr. Yaakov Blitstein- Director General Ministry of Energy, Mr. Paul Marsden President of Energy- Bechtel in addition to meetings with Paxon, DESFA and Worly.
During these meetings, EMGF SG Mobarez shared a brief about the EMGF and its objectives, establishment, founding Members, and highlighted the Long-term Strategy objectives and pillars, and discussed potential areas of cooperation with the EMGF.
EU Commissioner “the EMGF played a key role in connecting the EU with reliable partners under the umbrella of the Trilateral MoU”
The EMGF Secretary General Osama Mobarez met with H.E. Kadri Simpson the EU Commissioner for Energy and Climate on the sideline of the Egypt Petroleum Show (EGYPS).
The meeting witnessed joint discussions on the progress of the Trilateral MoU implementation, carbon capture and methane reduction projects technical and financial support.
During the meeting, the EU Commissioner acknowledged the key role the EMGF played in the Trilateral MoU signing in record time, and expressed her appreciation and support to the working groups in charge of the implementation of the MoU.
EMGF Secretary General Mobarez reaffirmed the EMGF support to the EU as it is a key strategic partner to the Forum, and reiterated the importance of building on the current cooperation between the EMGF and EU.
EMGF SG during EGYPS: “The EMGF has been driving the conversations that address sustainable climate-conscious production of gas and the growing commitment to energy transition and a net-zero future”
EMGF Secretary General Osama Mobarez participated in a panel in the 6th edition of the Egypt Petroleum Show, titled “The Race for Middle East Gas” alongside with H.E. Tarek el Molla- Egyptian Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources and H.E. Walid Fayyad- Minister of Energy and Water of Lebanon, H.E. Zafer Melhem- Head of the Palestinian Energy and Natural Resources Authority, and H.E. Nasser Kamel, the Secretary General of the Union for the Mediterranean.
Through the panel, EMGF SG emphasized the importance of collaboration between EMGF member countries along the full gas value chain, as it is one of the optimum solutions to address the gas shortage issues that the world is facing now.
In addition, SG Mobarez highlighted the EMGF efforts to reduce GHG emissions and improve energy efficiency through the Decarbonization in the East Med Region report which identified specific actionable recommendations for harmonizing and developing a common unified regional East Med market promoting Decarbonization.
Moreover, EMGF SG Mobarez praised the efforts of H.E. Tarek el Molla Egyptian Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources in COP 27 decarbonization day, which enabled the Energy industry to have a seat on the table in this important event.
EMGF concluded a series of successful meetings with U.S. Congressmen on the sideline of the 4th Southeast Europe & East Med conference.
During the participation of EMGF Secretary General Osama Mobarez in the 4th Southeast Europe & East Med conference that was organized by the Delphi Economic Forum, and took place in Washington DC from 6-7 February, SG Mobarez conducted a series of productive meetings with U.S. Congressmen.
These important meeting with Congressman Bill Keating- U.S. representative for Massachusetts’s 9th congressional district, Congressman Chuck Fleischmann- U.S. representative for Tennessee’s 3rd congressional district, Congressman Gus M. Bilirakis- U.S. representative for Florida’s 12th congressional district and Congressman Joe Wilson- U.S. representative for South Carolina’s 2nd congressional district, Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis- U.S. representative for New York’s 11th congressional district and Texas Senator Ted Cruz, reflected the U.S. Support to the EMGF and its activities,
During the meetings, SG Mobarez presented the different activities of the EMGF and highlighted the importance of the decarbonization report that the EMGF launched recently, the congressmen praised the efforts of the EMGF and its member countries and offered their continuous support to the EMGF.
Ambassador Geoffrey Pyatt & H.E. David Turk acknowledged the EMGF successful model of partnership.
During the EMGF Secretary General visit to Washington DC in February to participate in the 4th Southeast Europe & East Med conference, high level meetings were conducted with Ambassador Geoffrey Pyatt- Assistant Secretary, Bureau of Energy Resources, U.S Department of State and H.E. David Turk- Deputy Secretary, U.S. Department of Energy
During the meetings, SG Mobarez highlighted the EMGF efforts in mitigating the consequences of the current global energy crisis, by seeking to provide a solution for the dilemma of securing gas supplies in a timely and sustainable manner, whereas Ambassador Geoffrey Pyatt & H.E. David Turk acknowledged the EMGF platform as a very successful model for partnership among the different stakeholders that proved to be one of the solutions to a lot of the overwhelming challenges.
EMGF SG highlights the EMGF growing role in ensuring Global Energy Security during his participation in the 4th Southeast Europe & East Med conference.
EMGF Secretary General Osama Mobarez participated in the 4th Southeast Europe & East Med conference alongside leading government officials, businesspeople and academics, the event was organized by the Delphi Economic Forum, and took place in Washington DC from 6-7 February.
Over the course of this two-day event, wide array of topics was raised, including the prospects for cooperation and stability in the Middle East and the Eastern Mediterranean region, the ongoing energy crisis and the prospects for European energy autonomy and security.
SG Mobarez participated as a speaker in a panel titled “The East Mediterranean and Great Power politics alongside with Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for European & Eurasian Affairs, U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Dean of the Center for Maritime Strategies, Vice Chairman of the Board, Libra Group and Director of Institute of Global Affairs, American College of Greece.
During the panel, the EMGF SG emphasized the EMGF role in bringing the East Med region together and how it redefined the perception of energy, “The EMGF has evolved substantially in a short period becoming an important platform engaging regional gas players for the benefit of the whole region” said SG Mobarez.
Moreover, SG Mobarez highlighted the EMGF growing role in ensuring global energy security particularly to Europe in light of the current gas shortage facing some of the European countries.
In light of the establishment of the STAC committee in the framework of EMGF.. EMGF SG meets EU Director for International Cooperation in DG Research and Innovation.
EMGF Secretary General Osama Mobarez participated in the EU – Launch of Mediterranean Initiative Horizon Europe WP 2023-2024 held in Cairo, Egypt on January 30th.
The event was organized by the European Commission in collaboration with the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) aiming at bringing together multiple research and innovation stakeholders in the Euro-Mediterranean region.
On the sideline of the event, EMGF SG held a productive meeting with Ms. Maria Cristina Russo- EU Director for International Cooperation in DG Research and Innovation.
During the meeting, SG Mobarez highlighted the importance of the strategic partnership between the EMGF and the EU, and introduced the new EMGF Scientific and Technical Advisory Committee, while Ms. Russo applauded the milestones achieved to date in the EMGF, and assured continuous support for the newly formed STAC committee.
SG Mobarez during his participation in the ADSW: "The Energy market turmoil has put more emphasize on the important role of the EMGF"
The EMGF Secretary General Osama Mobarez has participated in the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW) that took place from 14-19 January 2023, to build on progress made to tackle securing energy supplies in parallel with efforts to realize climate neutrality through implementing energy transition.
During SG Mobarez participation in a plenary session in the Global Energy Forum titled “Energy Inflection Point: Reliable Supply in a Moment of Crisis” H.E. emphasized the EMGF growing role in ensuring global energy security particularly to Europe in light of the current gas shortage facing some of the European countries. H.E. has also highlighted the importance of striking the right balance between Energy transition and Energy Security “The energy transition needs to be grounded in energy security, that is, adequate and reasonably priced supplies to ensure public support and avoid severe economic dislocations” said SG Mobarez.
On the sideline of the event, SG Mobarez met with a wide range of partners to discuss opportunities and priorities for the year ahead, and to set out joint vision for spearheading even greater ambitious actions towards identifying specific actionable recommendations for developing a common unified regional East Med market promoting Decarbonization.
Fruitful Bilateral meetings were concluded with with Mr. Joseph McMonigle – IEF Secretary General, Ms. Mary Warlick – IEA Deputy Executive Director, Ms. Dóra Zombori- Hungary Deputy State Secretary of Energy and Eng. Fahad Alajlan- President, King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Center.
COP27 - Decarbonization Day EMGF Session "EMGF Decarbonization Initiative "
On the sidelines of the COP27 Decarbonization Day held on 11 November 2022 in Sharm El Sheikh, a dedicated session was organized in the Egyptian Pavilion to present the EMGF Decarbonization Initiative.
Mr. Karim El Dessouky Bechtel Egypt Vice President and General Manager and Mr. Maxim Nechaev S & P Global Director Consultant started by announcing the “EMGF Decarbonization Initiative” as a leading model to drive further decarbonization of the natural gas resources in the region.
This was followed by a panel discussion attended by H.E Tarek El Molla, Egyptian Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, H.E Natasa Pilides, Cypriot Minister of Energy, H.E. Osama Mobarez EMGF Secretary General, Mr. Lior Schillat Director General, Israeli Ministry of Energy and Ambassador Stu Jones Bechtel President.
The session provided insights on this EMGF Decarbonization Initiative and how it is encompassed in a comprehensive report that includes assessment of technologies and reduction potential, in addition to an analysis of the strategic decarbonization direction, along with needed policies and regulations, financing sources, technologies and capacities for a smooth decarbonization process.
COP27 - Decarbonization Day EMGF Session "Accelerating Oil & Gas Decarbonization: EMGF Initiative"
During the COP27 Decarbonization Day held on 11 November 2022 in Sharm El Sheikh, the EMGF was present through a dedicated session.
H.E. Osama Mobarez EMGF Secretary General started by highlighting the possible enablers that support the oil and gas during decarbonization, mainly technology, funding and capacity building.
This was followed by a panel discussion attended by H.E Tarek El Molla, Egyptian Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, H.E Natasa Pilides, Cypriot Minister of Energy, H.E. Osama Mobarez EMGF Secretary General, Mr. Claudio Descalzi ENI CEO, Dr. Pratima Rangarajan OGCI Climate Investment CEo and Mr. Riccardo Puliti Vice President for Infrastructure World Bank.
The session provided key factors needed to develop the low emission technologies, increase funding dedicated to decarbonization technologies for developing countries, and encourage technology transfer and capacity building to support developing countries in their mitigation and adaptation efforts.
EMGF Energy Transition Conference
H.E. Natasa Pilides – Cypriot Minister of Energy, Commerce & Industry hosted the first EMGF conference under H.E. presidency titled “EMGF Energy Transition Conference” in Nicosia, Cyprus from 13-14 October 2022, where H.E. started by welcoming all the guests. H.E. Nicos Anastasiades President of the Republic of Cyprus attended the conference and greeted the participants. Opening remarks were then presented by H.E. Osama Mobarez – EMGF Secretary General and H.E. Kadri Simson – EU Commissioner for Energy. They applauded the efforts of all EMGF Ministers, EB members and GIAC members, highlighting how EMGF will play a key role in the future energy scene providing an opportunity for energy transition and security.
This was followed by a ministerial opening panel discussion titled “The role of the East Med countries and the EU in promoting partnership to achieve ambitious common goals on Energy Transition and Energy Security” attended by H.E Tarek El Molla, Egyptian Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, H.E Natasa Pilides, Cypriot Minister of Energy, Commerce and Industry, H.E. Kostas Skrekas, Greek Minister of Environment and Energy, H.E. Saleh A. Al-Kharabsheh, Jordanian Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, H.E Osama Mobarez, EMGF Secretary General, H.E. Kadri Simson, EU Commissioner for Energy. The session provided revealing insights around the role of the East Med countries and their future vision and strategies in the energy transition domain.
In the evening a closed session for GIAC and EB members was conducted to discuss the preliminary outcomes of two important studies on Energy Security and Energy Transition. The first presentation was conducted by Mr. Karim El Desouky – EMGF GIAC Decarbonisation WG Lead titled “Decarbonization in the East Mediterranean Region Report” followed by another presentation by Mr. Sameh Sabry – EMGF GIAC Economic SC Head titled “The Role of East Med in the EU Energy Security”. These presentations gave an overview and update on both topics and welcomed discussions from all audience attending.
Amcham Roundtable Discussion "U.S. Technical and Financing Tools for Methane Reduction"
H.E. Osama Mobarez EMGF SG participated in a round table discussion titled “U.S. Technical and Financing Tools for Methane Reduction” organized by the American Chamber of Commerce on 4th October 2022. The discussion focused on the necessity of availing the technical tools as well as sustainable finance sources for a just energy transition pathway focusing mainly on methane emissions reduction.
H.E. Mobarez in his key note speech stressed on the commitment of the EMGF towards delivering resilient, diversified and smooth energy transition and applauded the efforts and support given by the USA. He gave an overview about the activities of the EMGF that support global climate action and the de-carbonization initiatives. This was followed by two presentation one by the US Special Presidential Envoy for Climate team and the other by the Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources to promote the efforts in methane emissions reduction in Egypt’s oil and gas sector. The event ended with an open discussion from all participants around this key topic and needed actions as we approach the COP27 next month.
Gastech Panel Discussion "Unlocking and accelerating the full potential of the Eastern Mediterranean gas basin"
During Gastech H.E. Osama Mobarez EMGF Secretary General participated in a panel titled “Unlocking and accelerating the full potential of the Eastern Mediterranean gas basin” on 6 September 2022 along side H.E. Tarek El Molla, Egyptian Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, H.E. Natasa Pilades, Cypriot Minister of Energy, Commerce & Industry, Ms. Alexandra Sdoukou, Greek Secretary General for Energy & Mineral Resources, Ms. Laura Lochman, US DOS Deputy Assistant Secretary and Mr. Guido Brusco, COO Natural Resources Eni.
H.E. Mobarez gave an overview of the current gas potential of the East Med region and how the EMGF is capable of achieving a breakthrough in regional gas cooperation to allow for economic growth and security for the whole region. H.E. then engaged in the discussions by adding that the EMGF activities are progressing further to ensure energy security in the region and can address the current EU gas shortage issue by developing several projects to enhance cooperation. Finally H.E. highlighted the EMGF efforts in decarbonization that will be presented in the upcoming COP27 hosted by Egypt next November.
EMGF – EGYPS 2nd edition Strategic Leadership Round table Discussion “The East Med and North African Gas Opportunity”
On the sidelines of Gastech, the EMGF together with EGYPS organized the second edition of Strategic Leadership Roundtable on 5 September 2022. The discussion hosted Ministers, senior energy experts, industry leaders and international organizations to discuss how the East Med and North Africa can play a pivotal role in supporting sustainable global energy supply and demand.
The discussion started with key note speech from HE Tarek El Molla Egyptian Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources where he highlighted the pivotal role of the East Med region to support global supply and demand dynamics especially for the EU and the importance of expanding the existing trade relationships with Europe and boost economic growth through the EMGF to create more projects to increase gas exports to new markets in Europe.
The second module focused on partnership and investment, where H.E. Natasa Pilides Cypriot Minister of Energy, Commerce and Industry highlighted the positive role of the EMGF in paving the way for consuming, transit and producing countries and even private sector to align and work together in delivering global long-term partnerships and investments in gas/LNG and energy infrastructure.
Finally the third module handled the importance of energy transition, where H.E. Osama Mobarez EMGF Secretary General stressed EMGF’s support to energy transition and presented the various projects and decarbonization efforts in place and emphasized that EMGF believes in the importance of sustainable development and that energy efficiency will directly strengthen energy security in the region.
26th Annual Economist Government Roundtable "Strategic Energy Partnership in the region"
H.E. Osama Mobarez EMGF SG participated in the 26th Annual Economist Government Roundtable event through a panel titled “Strategic Energy Partnership in the region” in Athens on 6th of July 2022, along side H.E. Kostas Skrekas, Greek Minister of Environment & Energy as well as business partners Mr. Fabrizio Mattana, CEO IGI Poseidon, Mr. Jerry Kalogiratos, CEO Capital Product Partners LP, Ms. Maria Rita Galli, CEO DESFA and Mr. Konstantinos Karagiannakos, Executive Director, ICGB Bulgaria. The panel focused on the significance of collaboration around energy in the region to overcome all the challenges and ensure the availability of cleaner energy sources like natural gas for all nations.
H.E. Mobarez in his key note speech stressed the importance of enhancing regional cooperation in light of all the challenges due to the pandemic and geopolitical tension and how gas will play a role in the future energy mix. He gave an overview about the latest updates of the EMGF and how the forum is one of key solutions for Europe to help them diversify their gas supply.
He also shed light through the discussions on the importance of the East Med Gas with all its wealth and potential to ensure energy security and help secure access to more diversified sources of gas and LNG. He finally highlighted the EMGF efforts that support global energy transition towards cleaner sources of energy.
Natural Gas in the Energy Transition Workshop
H.E. Osama Mobarez EMGF SG participated in a workshop titled “Natural Gas in the Energy Transition” organized by the Italian Embassy in Cairo on 21st of June 2022. The workshop focuses on the Italian and Egyptian companies collaboration especially in the natural gas sector and the future role of natural gas in the energy mix.
H.E. Mobarez in his key note speech stressed the importance of availing affordable and cleaner sources of energy like natural gas. He gave an overview about the latest updates of the EMGF in light of last week’s ministerial meeting, where the long term strategy that focuses on energy transition and environment was endorsed and how the forum is committed to enhance regional cooperation and support global positive climate action.
EMGF – EGYPS Round table Discussion “East Med Gas Role In Enabling Energy Security And Developing Decarbonisation Efforts”
On the sidelines of the EMGF 7th Ministerial Meeting EGYPS organized a closed-door Strategic Leadership Roundtable hosted for the EMGF Ministers and Heads of Delegation, Senior Energy experts, GIAC members and International Organizations on June 15th, 2022 to discuss how the East Mediterranean region can play a pivotal role to support global supply and demand dynamics, while ensuring smooth energy transition to cleaner sources of energy especially natural gas.
The discussion started with key note speech from H.E. Kadri Simson, Commissioner for Energy, European Union where she shed light on the role of East Med Gas to ensure energy security and the discussion evolved on how the EMGF can help secure access to more diversified sources of gas and LNG, to stabilize domestic energy supplies amid growing shortages and increasing costs.
The second module of the event focused on energy transition and decarbonisation, where H.E. Dr. Yasmine Fouad, Egyptian Minister of Environment & COP27 Ministerial Coordinator & Envoy highlighted the positive role of the EMGF in promoting the use of cleaner sources of energy. And thanked the initiative of involving the oil and gas sector both governments and companies in an environmental conversation. The discussion continued with perspectives around the contribution of East Med Gas to the energy transition and to the decarbonisation initiatives that can be presented in the upcoming COP27.
EMGF – Amcham Round table Discussion “Financing for Decarbonization”
EMGF in collaboration with the American Chamber of Commerce organized round table event on the 31st of May 2022 with the title “Financing for De-carbonization”. The discussion focused on ways in which sustainable finance can help decarbonize the economy, highlighting the critical role of the financial services industry as they fund the transition to a sustainable future
Mr. Helmy Ghazi – Deputy CEO and Head of Global Banking HSBC presented the role of the financial services industry in achieving net-zero targets and exploring the potential impact of financial institutions. This was followed by discussion from key oil and gas players with H.E. Osama Mobarez EMGF SG on how financing is one of the key points in achieving smooth energy transition and the initiatives and projects the EMGF are providing to ensure regional gas de-carbonization.
Energy Climate Diplomacy in Times of Systematic Crisis: Keeping Climate Pledges in the context of Hard Realities Webinar
H.E. Osama Mobarez EMGF SG participated in a panel titled “Strategizing EU Gas Supply: Look from EU Energy Partners” organized by MOFA of Republic of Bulgaria as part of Webinar titled “Energy Climate Diplomacy in Times of Systematic Crisis: Keeping Climate Pledges in the context of Hard Realities” on 20th of April 2022.
H.E. Mobarez gave an overview of the current challenges facing the gas market, presented the latest updates of the EMGF and how EMGF is one of key solutions for Europe to help them diversify their gas supply to ensure energy security.
EU- Egypt’s Role in Mitigating and Adapting to the Effects of the Climate Crisis in view of the COP 26
