Member Corner
The Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) and the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) convened their 4th Coordination Meeting today on the sidelines of COP30 in Belém, Brazil, further strengthening their long-standing collaboration on climate and energy matters.
The meeting gathered delegates, experts, and negotiators from both GECF and OPEC Member Countries, creating an important platform for substantive engagement at a critical juncture in the COP30 negotiations. Participants exchanged insights on the evolving negotiation streams and reflected on several of the most complex and sensitive issues currently under discussion, including climate finance, just transition, adaptation, and the growing implications of unilateral trade-related measures for energy-exporting developing countries.
During the session, delegations actively contributed their views and experiences from the negotiation rooms, highlighting common challenges and opportunities. There was a shared understanding of the need for closer coordination, stronger alignment, and a unified voice to ensure that the perspectives and priorities of energy-producing developing countries are fully reflected in the COP30 outcomes.
The meeting was co-chaired by Dr Mohammad Amin Naderian, Head of the Energy Economics and Forecasting Department at the GECF, and Mr Daniel Bako, Head of the Environmental Matters Department at OPEC. Both sides reaffirmed the essential role of oil and natural gas in supporting global energy security, socio-economic development, and the broader objectives of just, equitable and orderly energy transitions.
The GECF and OPEC reiterated their commitment to continue working closely throughout COP30 and beyond, ensuring constructive engagement within the UNFCCC process and contributing meaningfully to balanced, equitable, and implementable climate solutions.