The 7th Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) took place in Algiers, Algeria, on March 2, 2024.
During this gathering, leaders convened to endorse the Algiers Declaration, emphasizing solidarity and cooperation among member nations.
Hosted by His Excellency Mr. Abdelmadjid Tebboune, President of Algeria, the summit welcomed leaders from member countries such as Bolivia, Egypt, Iran, Nigeria, and Qatar, among others.
Observer and guest countries, including Angola, Italy, Oman, and Senegal, also participated. Representatives from various international organizations enriched the discussions.
Mr. Tebboune highlighted the importance of the summit in shaping a shared vision to uphold the interests of gas producers and consumers alike.
He stressed the pivotal role of natural gas in sustainable development and energy security, underscoring Algeria’s commitment to its expansion alongside renewable energies.
Moreover, Mr. Tebboune emphasized the necessity for dialogue and multilateral action to address contemporary challenges, advocating for long-term contracts, fair prices, and investment-friendly policies to drive technological progress.
The summit welcomed Mozambique, Mauritania, and Senegal as new members, reaffirming the GECF’s dedication to energy cooperation.
Under the theme “Natural Gas for a Secure and Sustainable Future,” leaders engaged in comprehensive discussions on the role of natural gas in advancing socio-economic development and addressing energy security concerns.
The Algiers Declaration underscored the leaders’ commitment to promoting natural gas as a flexible, reliable, and environmentally-friendly energy source.
It emphasized the wider utilization of natural gas to combat energy poverty and achieve sustainable development goals, ensuring inclusivity and prosperity for all.
Furthermore, the inauguration of the Gas Research Institute headquarters in Algiers symbolized the commitment to advancing cooperation in natural gas technologies and capacity-building among member countries.
The leaders also expressed determination to advocate for the inclusion of natural gas in climate and investment regulations, banking, and global trade, highlighting its significance as an environmentally sustainable resource.
The 7th GECF Summit exemplified a collective effort towards fostering energy cooperation and dialogue, with sincere appreciation extended to President Tebboune for his leadership and Algeria for its warm hospitality.
