Egypt has secured a landmark role in the global energy landscape by assuming the vice presidency of the International Gas Union (IGU) through the Egyptian Gas & Energy Association (EGEA). This appointment marks the first time that a country from either Africa or the Middle East has held this influential position within the IGU, a development seen as a major step forward in enhancing the region’s voice in the international gas dialogue.
The vice presidency is part of a broader leadership trajectory, with Egypt set to take over the IGU presidency for the 2028–2031 term. This progression reflects the country’s growing influence in the global energy sector and its increasing focus on energy diplomacy.
Khaled AbuBakr, Chairman of EGEA, has officially taken on the role of Vice President of the IGU. In this capacity, he will participate in key decision-making meetings and represent the union in prominent international forums, including the G7 and G20 summits, as well as United Nations Climate Change Conferences. His appointment underscores Egypt’s rising stature in global energy governance and highlights the role of EGEA in shaping future energy policy.
Supporting AbuBakr in this international role is a team of seasoned professionals. Mohamed Fouad, EGEA’s Secretary General, has been named Director of the Egyptian IGU Presidency Team. He also serves as Chair of the National Organization Committee for the 2031 World Gas Conference (WGC), which will take place in Egypt. The WGC is the IGU’s flagship event, held every three years, and the 2031 edition will coincide with the union’s 100th anniversary — a symbolic milestone for both Egypt and the organization.
Also contributing to this leadership effort is Karim Shaaban, head of EGEA’s Strategy and Planning Committee. Shaaban has been appointed Vice Chair of the IGU’s Coordination Committee and also holds a seat on the Executive Committee. His role involves supervising the operations of IGU’s internal committees and helping formulate the Triennial Work Program, which outlines the union’s priorities and strategic initiatives during each presidency cycle.
EGEA’s approach under this new leadership will emphasize a balanced energy transition, with a focus on integrating natural gas, low-carbon technologies, and renewable energy sources. According to Fouad, the updated strategy aims to foster sustainability while ensuring energy security and accessibility — issues that remain central to global energy discussions.
The 2031 World Gas Conference is expected to draw a wide range of stakeholders from across the global energy industry, including policymakers, corporate leaders, researchers, and investors. The event will serve as a platform for addressing key challenges facing the gas sector, such as decarbonization, infrastructure modernization, and supply security.
Beyond its symbolic significance, Egypt’s hosting of the WGC is also anticipated to yield tangible benefits. The event is likely to boost foreign investment in Egypt’s energy sector, stimulate technology transfer, and elevate the country’s profile as a regional energy hub. It will also enable Egypt to showcase its progress in gas infrastructure, policy reforms, and international partnerships.
This achievement not only highlights Egypt’s growing leadership in the global gas industry but also reflects broader shifts toward inclusive energy governance, where countries from the Global South are increasingly taking center stage in shaping the future of energy.