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Egypt Wins IGU Presidency and qualifies to ho
– The first time an African & middle eastern country wins IGU presidency and hosts WGC
– AbuBakr: Our future vision for the energy sector is centered on three main objectives: strengthening energy security, ensuring affordability, and advancing sustainability
Cairo, October 2024 — In a landmark moment for Egypt and the global gas industry, Egypt has been elected to lead the International Gas Union (IGU) for the 2028-2031 term under the presidency of Eng. Khaled AbuBakr. Egypt will also host the prestigious 31st World Gas Conference (WGC) in 2031, marking the first time an African and middle eastern country winning the IGU presidency and hosting the WGC. WGC is the world’s premier event in the gas and energy industry, that brings together key industry players to shape the future of the energy sector.
Eng. Khaled AbuBakr, the elected IGU President and the Chairman of the Egyptian Gas Association stated: “It is a true honor for me to lead the IGU during such a pivotal time for the global energy transition. I would like to express my gratitude for the steadfast support extended by the Egyptian government, especially the Ministry of Petroleum and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.”
“Our future vision for the energy sector is centered on three main objectives: strengthening energy security by enhancing gas infrastructure in underserved areas, ensuring affordability by bolstering the industry’s resilience to price volatility, and advancing sustainability through enabling investments in green hydrogen, E-Methanol and greener fuels to lower emissions. These initiatives reflect Egypt’s unwavering commitment to cultivating a diverse and environmentally sustainable energy landscape,” AbuBakr added.
Abu Bakr also affirmed, “Egypt will work side by side with the Italian presidency of the International Gas Union through the position of Vice President from 2025 to 2028. I will be honored to lead this position, and Egypt will fully coordinate and cooperate with the Italian presidency to ensure the achievement of the desired goals.”
Building on this vision, Egypt’s hosting of WGC2031 will offer a global platform to showcase the country’s leadership in energy transition, scientific innovation, and technological advancements. The event will not only highlight Egypt’s efforts in creating a green energy hub but will also draw international attention to the country’s vast potential, both in the gas sector and as a prime destination for global tourism.
Eng. AbuBakr brings extensive experience to the role, having served on the IGU Board from 2009 to 2022, and as Regional Coordinator for Africa and the Middle East for the past 12 years. Under his leadership, Egypt’s presidency will champion the vision of “Aligning for a Sustainable Future,” with a focus on balancing economic prosperity, environmental preservation, and social welfare, all in alignment with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The announcement came during the International Gas Union’s Council meeting, held in Cairo from October 14th to 18th, 2024. This gathering provided a critical platform for industry leaders to connect, share insights, and collectively address the urgent challenges facing the global gas industry. Beyond the professional discussions, attendees were also given the opportunity to experience the rich historical heritage of Cairo, adding a cultural dimension to the event.
Founded in 1931, the International Gas Union has long served as a prominent advocate for the gas industry on the global stage. With over 150 members representing more than 95% of the world’s gas market, the IGU fosters collaboration, drives innovation, and tackles the critical challenges that face the energy sector today.
