Gastech 2023, the world’s largest meeting place for natural gas, LNG, hydrogen, low-carbon solutions, and climate technologies, opened on September 5 in Singapore.
The first day featured a range of insightful contributions from policymakers, CEOs, and business leaders on the multiple, interconnected challenges facing the global energy sector.
Delegates discussed the critical role of natural gas, LNG, and hydrogen as key enablers of future energy security and accelerators of the energy transition, in Asia and beyond.
Boris Johnson, former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, said: “The complexity of today’s geopolitical and economic climates have left governments grappling with the dual challenge of addressing climate change and meeting increasing energy demand.
“This winter, businesses and families around the world face high inflation, high interest rates, and uncertainty over energy prices. At events like Gastech, the global energy community have a unique and important opportunity to align on collective action towards a cleaner, more affordable, and more secure energy future.”
Dr Tan See Leng, Minister for Manpower and Second Minister for Trade and Industry, Singapore, welcomed attendees to Singapore at the opening ceremony, adding: "The world is undergoing a profound energy transition, getting to net zero while preserving energy security and economic competitiveness. Moving forward, the demand for natural gas in Asia will only continue to grow. Singapore is committed to satisfying the region's energy needs.”
Also speaking at the Gastech 2023 Ministerial Session, Joseph McMonigle, the Secretary General of the International Energy Forum (IEF) emphasised the need for inclusive dialogue on decarbonisation ahead of the COP28 Summit. He said: "What we have learned is that this linear approach to net zero is an outdated approach that is not workable in many areas around the world. We need everyone at the table, and I hope that at this COP, we will focus on progress and not perfection. There are so many things we can do to make progress on climate change, and natural gas is going to help the world to decarbonise."
Gastech 2023 kicks off in Singapore with address by former UK PM
