Viktor Zubkov, Chairman of the Board of PJSC Gazprom, emphasised Gazprom’s commitment to promoting natural gas as an environmentally friendly, economical, and versatile energy resource, highlighting its essential role in the global shift toward sustainable energy.

“In the long term, as global economies expand, demand for accessible and clean energy will inevitably rise,” he said, citing projections from the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) that anticipate global gas consumption will surpass 5.5 trillion cubic meters by 2050.

At the Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (ADIPEC), Viktor Zubkov provided exclusive comments to Emirates News Agency (WAM), sharing the company’s strategic objectives and insights into global energy trends.

As a regular participant in ADIPEC, Gazprom leverages this influential platform to strengthen international partnerships and address critical energy challenges.

A major focus for Gazprom is the increasing influence of the Global South in the global gas market. “Countries from this region are becoming significant players, both as gas producers and consumers,” Zubkov noted. By 2050, these nations are expected to account for up to 70% of global gas demand and production, marking a substantial shift in the international energy balance. This trend reflects the Global South’s growing energy role, with its share of gas demand rising from 45% to 55% over the past 25 years and anticipated to reach 70% by mid-century.

“Economic growth directly correlates with increased gas consumption,” Zubkov said, underscoring the rising demand in regions like Russia, China, India, Brazil, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East. He expressed confidence in natural gas as a transformative force for competitive and sustainable economic growth, adding, “Natural gas will play a crucial role in shaping the competitive economies and energy systems of the future.”

Amid evolving global trade routes, Gazprom also views the strengthening of international energy ties as crucial for energy security. The company remains committed to open dialogue with partners who share its vision for balanced energy development. “We are ready to share our extensive expertise across various aspects of the gas business,” Zubkov said, highlighting Gazprom’s dedication to collaborative efforts at ADIPEC and beyond, aimed at fostering a resilient and interconnected global energy landscape.