The eighth summit of the heads of state of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) will take place on October 27, 2026 (Aban 5, 1405) in Moscow, the capital of the Russian Federation, with the participation of presidents and high-ranking officials from member and observer countries. This event, marking the twenty-fifth anniversary of the establishment of the forum, is an important opportunity to examine structural developments in the global natural gas market.
Objectives of the Summit and the Islamic Republic of Iran's Programs
The main objective of the Iranian delegation's visit to the Russian Federation is to participate in the summit of heads of state and the twenty-eighth ministerial meeting of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum. This summit is considered a valuable opportunity for exchanging views on developments in the global gas market and strengthening coordination among member countries. The Islamic Republic of Iran will emphasize the importance of preserving the legitimate interests of gas-producing and exporting countries and will stress the need to strengthen the role of natural gas in global energy security.
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Hamid Bord, the head of the Ministry of Oil, has emphasized the necessity of developing technological cooperation and protecting the interests of producers against geopolitical tensions in anticipation of this event. He also stated that the outcomes of this summit could lead to increased convergence among member countries and enhance the effectiveness of the forum.
Impact of War on Global Energy Supply
Hamid Bord discussed the impact of the imposed war by the United States and the Zionist regime on global energy supply, particularly gas, stating: "Unjust aggressions against Iran's national sovereignty have created serious problems for the security of global energy supply. Attacks on Iran's energy infrastructure, such as the South Pars gas region, directly harm global energy security. Iran, as one of the largest holders of natural gas reserves, plays a key role in energy production and supply. The repercussions of these attacks will not be limited to Iran's borders and will quickly spread to global markets."
He also referred to the continued supply of oil and natural gas by the Iranian Ministry of Oil despite existing limitations and tensions, emphasizing the ministry's determination to continue this process.
The Role of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum in the Global Market
Natural gas, as a clean and accessible fuel, is one of the main elements of the current global energy system. The Gas Exporting Countries Forum can help enhance stability and security of supply and demand in gas markets by creating a platform for dialogue. The capacity of member countries, which hold about 70% of the world's gas reserves and over 40% of global gas exports, has created a special position for this forum in the realm of global energy governance.
The Islamic Republic of Iran, as one of the founders of the GECF, emphasizes the necessity of cooperation among producing countries and strengthening the position of natural gas. Iran can collaborate with member countries in the fields of exploration, development, and utilization of natural gas and share its technical and economic experiences with them.
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