Baghdad: Secretary-General of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), Haitham Faisal Rashid Al-Ghais, has emphasized the importance of the inaugural Baghdad International Energy Forum as a strategic milestone for the global oil industry, enhancing Iraq's position as a central hub in the energy sector both regionally and internationally.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Al-Ghais, in a letter addressed to the forum organizers and shared via the Ghadan Risk Management Foundation website, stated that OPEC's involvement in the event highlights the organization's commitment, along with its member states, to fostering cooperation and coordination in the oil sector and across all energy sources. He pointed out that Iraq, as a founding member of OPEC, plays a crucial role in maintaining stability and balance in global energy markets.

He also remarked that the forum offers a valuable opportunity to attract specialists, investors, and international partners to enhance capabilities and bolster the energy industry in Iraq. Al-Ghais expressed confidence that the success of this event would establish Baghdad as a permanent venue for strategic dialogues and agreements in the energy sector.

The OPEC Secretary-General reiterated the organization's support for Iraq's efforts in organizing the forum and expressed his hope that it becomes a regular global tradition held in Iraq.

Set to take place on September 6-7, 2025, at the Rashid Hotel in Baghdad, the Baghdad International Energy Forum will be held under the patronage of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani. The event is organized by the Ghadana Risk Management Foundation, in collaboration with the Ministry of Oil and the State Oil Marketing Organization (SOMO), and will feature participation from energy ministers, major energy companies, and experts from Iraq and abroad.