Shell’s collaboration with Qatar 'very strong', says CEO Ben van Beurden

Shell’s collaboration with Qatar is “very strong”, CEO Ben van Beurden said and noted: “Qatar is a world class leader in liquefied natural gas.”He was speaking at an event at the QatarEnergy headquarters yesterday where QatarEnergy announced its selection of Shell as its second international partner in the North Field South (NFS) expansion project.NFS comprises two LNG mega trains that will have a combined capacity of 16mn tonnes per year (mtpy). It will raise Qatar’s total LNG production capacity to 126 mtpy, by 2027 from 110mn tonnes per year that will be achieved through completion of the North Field East (NFE) project in 2026.Van Beurden said: “It is very important to supply more gas to the world. The world’s transition to a zero-emission energy source will take time. Until such time fossil fuels are required. “As for natural gas, it emits far less carbon and is easy to transport to countries around the world. So, it can provide countries secure supplies of reliable energy.” Commenting on a temporary price cap on natural gas in Europe, the Shell CEO said EU politicians realise the plan is complicated. “I am sure this will settle in an appropriate and responsible way that will really benefit both markets and consumers in Europe,” he told the ceremony; adding; “Europe will have to reduce demand from industry for gas.” HE the Minister of State for Energy Affairs Saad bin Sherida al-Kaabi noted: “Shell brings great capabilities and expertise in this field. We welcome them and look forward to working with them in this project in a manner that enhances our decades-long relationship and fruitful strategic partnerships in Qatar and around the world.”Al-Kaabi also thanked CEO Ben van Beurden “for his distinguished role in advancing our partnership to an unprecedented level and for a relationship that will extend for decades.”Recently, Shell announced that van Beurden has decided to retire at the end of this year.The minister also congratulated Wael Sawan, who was present at the ceremony yesterday, for his selection as the next CEO of Shell from next year. “We wish him all the success,” al-Kaabi said.