Riyadh:The third edition of the Symposium on Pathways to Reduce Carbon Emissions in the Petroleum Downstream Industries began today in Riyadh. Organized by the Organization of Arab Petroleum Exporting Countries (OAPEC) in collaboration with the Ministry of Energy, the event is being held alongside the 25th World Petroleum Congress on October 14 and 15.
According to Saudi Press Agency, OAPEC Secretary-General Eng. Khalid Al-Otaibi emphasized that this symposium underlines the organization's commitment to enhancing technical dialogue and regional cooperation. He highlighted the necessity for balanced policies, proven technologies, and sustainable investments to meet the increasing demand for petroleum products, improve operational efficiency, and reduce carbon emissions, asserting the significance of downstream industries in Arab economic competitiveness and industrial growth.
Al-Otaibi also expressed appreciation for the support of Minister of Energy and Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, acknowledging his role in promoting constructive knowledge exchange within the energy sector.
Deputy Minister of Energy for Sustainability and Climate Change Eng. Khalid Almehaid stressed the importance of customized decarbonization strategies in line with national priorities. He pointed out the role of Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) technologies, artificial intelligence, and the Circular Carbon Economy framework in reducing emissions while maintaining energy security and economic affordability.
The symposium brings together officials, industry leaders, researchers, and representatives from regional and international organizations to share best practices and present scalable technical solutions for decarbonizing the downstream sector. Key figures participating include International Energy Forum Secretary-General Eng. Jassim Alshirawi, Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association Secretary-General Eng. Mater Al Dhafeeri, and Arab Shipbuilding and Repair Yard Company CEO Dr. Ahmed Al-Abri. Joining via video were Gas Exporting Countries Forum Secretary-General Dr. Yury Sentyurin and Arab Union for Sustainable Development and Environment Secretary-General Dr. Ashraf Abdel-Aziz.