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A summit of the main gas producing countries is being held from this Sunday in Doha. The forum brings together 11 member states, but does not include Australia or the United States, which represent more than 70% of the world’s gas reserves. This meeting, in which Russia also participates, comes at a time when the Ukrainian crisis is intensifying and when Europeans are worried regarding their gas supply.
While gas prices are soaring, Europe is seeking to diversify its sources of supply and reduce its dependence on Moscow. For this, the European Union is turning to other members of the Forum of Gas Exporting Countries, in particular Qatar.
The problem is that most countries claim to have reached their maximum production capacity. They might only supply the EU on a temporary basis, provided that their current customers agree. Discussions will therefore mainly revolve around possible ways to increase production.
It’s hard to imagine Russia attending the debates without putting in its two cents. But the Forum might also serve the host country, Qatar, which wishes to establish itself as a mediator in the Ukrainian file.
Like Brussels, participants in the meeting are concerned regarding a possible escalation in Ukraine which would have consequences for the security of the world gas supply. Qatar’s interests converge with those of Iran. The lifting of the American sanctions imposed on Tehran would, according to Doha, make it possible to secure supplies at least in the medium term.
►Also read: Crisis in Ukraine: Brussels and Washington reflect on the key issue of gas
