Key achievements in OPEC, GECF, IEF 

Over the past year, the ministry secured major milestones in three key areas: the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF), and the International Energy Forum (IEF).

- OPEC Leadership: At OPEC’s 189th Ministerial Conference in Dec. 2024, Iran was elected to chair the 2025 OPEC Ministerial Conference. This decision, amid volatile global oil markets, positions Iran to play a pivotal role in shaping critical oil policies. Experts believe this will bolster Iran’s influence in OPEC’s strategic decisions.

- OPEC International Seminar: The 9th OPEC International Seminar, scheduled for July 2025, offers a key platform for Iran to expand its energy diplomacy. Iran’s role in fostering consensus among OPEC and non-OPEC producers has been widely praised.

- Market Analysis: The ministry has provided periodic analytical reports on global oil market trends, serving as essential tools for OPEC’s decision-making. These efforts highlight Iran’s commitment to transparency and international collaboration.

 Successful GECF summit, national security 

A major highlight of 1403 was Iran’s successful hosting of the 26th GECF Ministerial Meeting in Tehran on Dec. 8, attended by energy ministers from 12 member states (Algeria, Bolivia, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Iran, Libya, Nigeria, Qatar, Russia, Trinidad and Tobago, the United Arab Emirates, and Venezuela) and five observer nations (Azerbaijan, Iraq, Mozambique, Mauritania, and Senegal), with Oman participating as a guest.

Holding this high-profile event amid regional tensions demonstrated Iran’s stability and security. The meeting’s final statement, reflecting collective ministerial agreement, included key geopolitical positions:

- "Deep concern over escalating Middle East tensions and deliberate attacks against Iran."

- "Solidarity with regional populations and condolences to victims of violence."

Iran also successfully opposed a proposed amendment to extend the GECF secretary-general’s term (from 2+2 to 3+3 years), showcasing its diplomatic influence. Discussions emphasized gas industry challenges and opportunities, including supply security, environmental sustainability, and technological cooperation—further cementing Iran’s role as a top global gas reserve holder.

 Advocating for depoliticizing global energy 

At the IEF—a platform for 72 energy-producing, consuming, and transit nations—Iran, as a permanent executive board member, has actively shaped energy policies despite US. sanctions. Iranian representatives have:

- Defended producer nations’ rights, particularly Iran’s.

- Pushed for depoliticizing energy policies and blocked anti-producer measures.

- Promoted natural gas as a transitional fuel, urging consumer nations to invest in gas-related technologies.

 Resolving membership challenges 

Despite US sanctions and Swift payment restrictions, Iran averted IEF membership suspension (pending since 2015) by submitting documented appeals. By Q3 2024, in coordination with the National Iranian Oil Company, Iran settled its 2015–2023 membership dues, with plans to cover 2024–2025 fees.

 Strengthening energy diplomacy 

The 14th administration’s Oil Ministry has solidified Iran’s global energy standing through:

- Chairing OPEC’s 2025 conference.

- Successfully hosting the GECF summit.

- Active IEF engagement.

These achievements hold significant economic, political, and geopolitical weight, promising a brighter future for Iran’s oil and gas sector on the world stage.