Egypt’s Petroleum Minister Tarek El-Molla said in the inaugural speech that the meeting aims to direct the dynamics of the energy transition, especially in the field of natural gas and boosting cooperation between the countries of the forum.

He pointed out that the recent global developments and tensions have caused fluctuations in the energy market and that this has led to a global desire to face climate change and achieve energy security to support sustainable development.

El-Molla said that power security and climate protection are two integrated goals, adding that Egypt is keen on quick adaptation and benefiting from the opportunities to achieve more progress and prosperity.

The role of natural gas globally is pivotal, he said, adding that the forum is an important and crucial platform for dialogue on all the activities of the natural gas industry.

Meanwhile, the secretary-general of the GECF asserted the importance of constructive dialogue and cooperation to face the several challenges taking place in the world, especially the power crisis and climate change.

Earlier on Sunday, President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi met the heads of delegations and asserted on the importance of the role played by GECF in the energy sector at the regional and international level.

The president affirmed the necessity of intensifying efforts and cooperation in all related events to make the most of natural gas, and said he looks forward to the participation of all the forum's members in the upcoming UN climate conference (COP27) to shed light on natural gas's ability to achieve balance between nations' prosperity and preserving the environment.