Natural gas is projected to account for 26% of the global energy basket by 2050, Iranian Oil Minister Mohsen Paknejad said citing forecasts by the Secretariat of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF).
Speaking during the 26th GECF Ministerial Meeting in Tehran on Sunday, Paknejad stressed the forum's commitment to enhancing cooperation and adopting a united approach to address global challenges. He stated that the GECF is prepared to play an increasingly significant role in shaping global gas and energy markets.
The minister also highlighted geopolitical tensions, criticizing the "unrestrained and unprecedented crimes" by the Zionist regime in Gaza and Lebanon over the past year. Paknejad expressed concern about recent escalations, including the activities of armed opposition groups in Syria, and called for regional vigilance and a swift international actions.
These territorial tensions and threats not only destabilize the region but also pose significant risks to global energy security by disrupting supply chains and undermining access to vital energy resources, Paknejad warned.
He criticized unilateral approaches and the rapid shift away from fossil fuels, arguing that such strategies exacerbate global instability, inequality, and energy poverty. Paknejad added that even the most optimistic energy forecasts indicate that at least half of the world's energy needs will still be met by oil and gas in 2050.
“Efforts to eliminate or replace fossil fuels are unrealistic and threaten global energy security,” he concluded.