Senegal, Namibia & Other African Countries Can Potentially Join OPEC, Secretary General Says
Senegal, Namibia & Other African Countries Can Potentially Join OPEC, Secretary General Says
OPEC is in talks with many countries regarding membership in the organization, Haitham Al Ghais said, adding that he has already held meetings with representatives from Senegal and Namibia among others.
"We are always open to new OPEC members, provided they meet the organization's criteria and adhere to its statutes. These clearly state that a prospective member must share OPEC's objectives and be a significant net exporter of oil," he told reporters on the sidelines of the 9th OPEC International Seminar.
OPEC focuses on market fundamentals like economy, consumer demand and production availability — not on conflicts or political issues, Al Ghais noted, commenting on depoliticizing of the oil market.
The secretary general also announced plans to attend the Russian Energy Week, scheduled for October 15–17, at the invitation of Vladimir Putin.
OPEC opposes trade restrictions disrupting natural energy flows, as they harm both producers and consumers and hinder joint efforts with Russia and other partners to maintain global market stability, he stressed.
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