Diverse GECF Developing Focus, Strength

摘要

After repeated false starts, the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) may finally be shaping up as a viable organization, despite - or perhaps because of- the intense competition now engulfing global gas markets. Ten countries attended the GECF ministerial in Doha: Algeria, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Iran, Libya, Nigeria, Qatar, Russia, Trinidad and Tobago and Venezuela. Although members deferred a vote on a secretary general, they will establish a secretariat in Qatar and meet again in December, also in Doha - thus emphasizing Qatar's central role in the organization despite its highly competitive stance in markets. Norway and the United Arab Emirates had observer and guest status, respectively.