Member Corner
On 2 July 2026, H.E. Carlos José Mata Figueroa, Ambassador of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela to the State of Qatar, welcomed H.E. Dr. Philip Mshelbila, Secretary General of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF), to the Embassy of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela in Doha.
During the meeting, the Secretary General conveyed the GECF's heartfelt condolences and solidarity to the Government and people of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela following the recent devastating earthquake. He also extended his warm congratulations on Venezuela's Independence Day, conveying his best wishes for continued peace, prosperity and progress for the Venezuelan people.
H.E. Dr. Mshelbila reaffirmed the GECF's appreciation for the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela as a founding Member of the Forum and one of the world's historic energy leaders. He underscored Venezuela's keen efforts in promoting international energy dialogue, cooperation and multilateralism. The Secretary General further highlighted Venezuela's vast natural gas resources and reaffirmed Venezuela’s role in Latin America and the Caribbean, drawing on its unique heritage, rich history and longstanding leadership in advancing its energy sector.
Ambassador Carlos José Mata Figueroa expressed his sincere appreciation for the Secretary General's gesture of solidarity and friendship. He reaffirmed the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela's unwavering support for the GECF and for the leadership of H.E. Dr. Philip Mshelbila, reiterating his country's commitment to further strengthening cooperation and advancing the shared objectives of the Forum.
The meeting concluded in a cordial atmosphere, reflecting the longstanding friendship between the GECF and the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.