Iraq is set to host the inaugural Iraq Energy Forum on Saturday, September 6, 2025, in the capital, Baghdad. The event will feature high-level participation from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), including its Secretary-General, as well as broad international representation from both within and outside the organization. Leading global institutions specializing in energy exploration, oil pricing, market forecasts, and economic research related to crude oil, natural gas, and renewable energy are also expected to attend.

Ali Nizar Al-Shatri, Director General of the State Oil Marketing Organization (SOMO), described the forum as a strategic milestone for Iraq. “This forum represents a significant step in reaffirming Iraq’s pivotal role in stabilizing global energy markets. It carries great importance in terms of knowledge exchange and positioning Iraq at the heart of the international energy dialogue,” he said.

He emphasized Iraq's stature as the second-largest oil producer in OPEC and a major global energy supplier, underlining the country’s responsibility to take a leading role in key energy discussions. “Iraq must be at the forefront of global energy events,” Al-Shatri noted.

The forum will gather local and international stakeholders from across the energy sector to address critical topics, including the evolving relationship between traditional fossil fuels and the growing demand for clean and renewable energy sources.

Al-Shatri stressed the need for a responsible and professional discourse around energy policy—one that ensures accessibility and affordability for consumers while maintaining market stability for producers. “The world requires a balanced energy narrative—one that avoids the disruptive price fluctuations that harm both ends of the supply chain,” he added.

He also highlighted that the forum will examine the essential role of oil and gas in powering the technological and industrial advancements of the modern era, particularly the rising energy demands linked to artificial intelligence and advanced technologies. One of the forum’s key goals is to establish a framework for sustainable energy supply and price stability.

A major focus will be Iraq’s growing commitment to clean energy, driven by government initiatives under the direct supervision of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani. These include projects for the production of hydrogen and ammonia, aiming to create a synergistic relationship between fossil fuels and renewables both domestically and internationally.

Al-Shatri confirmed that 13 OPEC member states have been invited to the forum, with most confirming their attendance. Several non-OPEC nations, including strategic allies like Russia, and regional players such as Egypt, are also expected to participate. The forum will include representatives from consuming countries and related organizations, ensuring comprehensive discussions across the entire energy value chain—from production and supply to consumption.

“This will be a high-level international event that not only strengthens Iraq’s position on the global energy map, but also builds bridges between energy producers and consumers,” Al-Shatri concluded.