Saudi minister: Riyadh ‘capital of energy security’

RIYADH — Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman declared Riyadh the “capital of energy security,” reaffirming the Kingdom’s commitment to maintaining reliable energy supplies and fulfilling its obligations to global markets under all circumstances.Speaking at the opening of the International Energy Forum’s ministerial meeting in Riyadh on Sunday, marking the start of Energy Week, Prince Abdulaziz said Saudi Arabia’s position reflected years of investment, preparation and the dedication of men and women working across the Kingdom’s energy sector.“I am proud to say that this country, and the city of Riyadh, is the capital of energy security,” he said.The minister emphasized that energy security requires international cooperation, particularly amid current challenges facing global energy markets.He expressed hope that the ministerial meeting would direct attention toward the most pressing issues confronting the energy sector and encourage practical cooperation among participating countries.Prince Abdulaziz said face-to-face discussions provided an important opportunity for energy leaders to exchange assessments, address concerns and build the mutual understanding needed to strengthen international cooperation.He reaffirmed that Saudi Arabia would continue implementing its plans, meeting domestic needs and honoring its commitments to the international community regardless of the circumstances.“The Kingdom had demonstrated its resilience and ability to maintain progress toward its objectives even during periods of uncertainty.”Prince Abdulaziz highlighted Saudi Arabia’s efforts over the past eight months to reassure international partners of its determination to maintain dependable energy supplies.He stressed that the Kingdom would continue fulfilling its obligations to global markets, describing its commitment to energy security as a defining characteristic of Saudi energy policy.The minister pointed to the East-West Pipeline as a clear example of Saudi Arabia’s investment in energy supply resilience.The pipeline connects oil production centers in the Eastern Province with export facilities in Yanbu on the Red Sea, providing an alternative route for Saudi crude oil to reach international markets.Prince Abdulaziz said the Kingdom’s ability to maintain reliable energy supplies under challenging conditions was the result of sustained investment, advance planning and decisive action.He also referred to ongoing work involving different pipeline routes, expressing hope that further clarity would soon emerge regarding the Kingdom’s commitments and plans in this area.The minister reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s determination to strengthen its role in global energy markets while continuing to support the security and reliability of international energy supplies.