ABU DHABI: OPEC chief Suhail Al-Mazrouei said Tuesday he expected the global oil market to be balanced this year, as producers continue to trim production following a 2014 market crash.
“I am optimistic that this year, we will achieve a market balance” between supply and demand, Mazrouei, also the energy minister of the United Arab Emirates, told the Global Financial Markets Forum in Abu Dhabi.
Oil producers from OPEC and non-OPEC countries struck a historic deal in late 2016 to cut output by 1.8 million barrels per day, following a surplus in crude supply that sent prices crashing in 2014.
Compliance to the cuts hit 133 percent in January, which Mazrouei said exceeded the percentage required in the deal. The compliance rate was 129 percent in December and 122 percent in November.
Oil prices have rebounded to around $70 a barrel as a result of the policy.
Mazrouei said cooperation between oil producers including Russia had reached levels that were “more than expected.”
The minister said earlier this month that OPEC aimed to forge longer-term partnership with non-OPEC producers to stabilize the market.
Mazrouei warned however that with the balance returning to the oil market and demand picking up, the energy sector would require hefty investment in the near future — not only by the oil-rich Gulf states, but also international oil companies.
“We need to add 15 million barrels daily by 2040 to meet demand,” he said, putting the needed investment at $10.5 trillion.
OPEC chief expects 2018 oil market balance
OPEC chief expects 2018 oil market balance
Stc partners with Qiddiya as Six Flags official connectivity provider
RIYADH: Saudi stc Group has announced its partnership with Qiddiya as the official connectivity partner for the Six Flags theme park, providing telecom services, smart city solutions, and an integrated digital infrastructure in line with global standards, coinciding with the park’s official opening.
Under the partnership, stc will deliver an advanced digital ecosystem to enhance visitors’ experiences at Qiddiya, offering high-performance connectivity and smart technologies to facilitate entry and manage visitor flow within the park, ensuring a seamless and safe experience.
The collaboration reflects stc’s commitment to providing advanced digital infrastructure that supports Qiddiya’s ambitions and elevates the visitor experience.
By leveraging smart connectivity, smart city technologies, and innovative payment solutions, stc aims to deliver an integrated and streamlined experience across the destination.
The initiative also highlights stc’s role in supporting the tourism and entertainment sectors with world-class digital infrastructure that aligns with Saudi Arabia’s vision and future goals.









