More than 6,000 of the world’s most prominent energy leaders will gathered October 13 in Daegu, South Korea for the first day of the 22nd World Energy Congress (WEC).
This year's theme is: "Secure tomorrow's energy today."
Held every three years, the energy event aims to stimulate debate and find solutions to the world’s energy challenges. It attracts government ministers, industry leaders, NGOs, technology pioneers and energy experts from more than 113 countries.
An extensive four-day conference program will feature 272 expert speakers from 72 countries. Speakers include 55 government ministers and senior representatives from organizations including Asian Development Bank, the World Bank, the United Nations and the International Energy Agency. Sessions cover a broad range of energy issues and topics facing the international community, including the impact of global shale gas; the true potential of renewables; and an examination of how policymakers, industry and key decision makers must work together to form a more sustainable platform for future energy development.
“The commitment of such renowned companies and institutions to our congress underlines the importance of the agenda we will be debating. The role that energy plays in global economic development has never been higher on the agenda of global leaders. The factors that shape our energy future have never been more complex. And the urgency of the energy challenge has never been greater. I have great hopes that this congress will help to secure tomorrow’s energy today,” Christoph Frei, secretary general of the World Energy Council, said.
Khalid A. Al-Falih, president & CEO of Saudi Aramco is a keynote speaker on the first day of the WEC.
“Since the last WEC in Montreal, the energy industry has witnessed momentous changes, and today it is healthier, more dynamic and more confident than ever. Thanks to innovation and technological breakthroughs, we are in an era of abundance for oil and gas," Al-Falih said. "Despite that, a historic challenge looms ahead for all of us to provide access to adequate supplies of energy, particularly for billions of people around the world trapped in energy poverty. WEC Daegu 2013 provides the opportunity for all stakeholders to convene under one roof to collaborate and to address the future challenges that are ahead of us."
Daegu marks only the second time that the Congress has been hosted by an East Asian city. Tokyo was the venue in 1995.
The WEC will take place from October 13-17 at the EXCO Exhibition & Convention Center in Daegu, South Korea.
Further information can be obtained at www.daegu2013.kr