Energy Regulators Regional Association conf. kicks off in Oman
MUSCAT: The annual Energy Regulators Regional Association (ERRA)'s two-day conference kicked off Monday in Oman, bringing together more than 280 specialists representing 50 policymakers and academics from around the world.
In his speech, Chairman of the Authority for Public Services Regulation (APSR) Dr. Mansour Al-Hinai, said that hosting the conference represents an opportunity to highlight Oman's efforts to develop the energy sector, enhance its efficiency, and diversify its sources within the Oman Vision 2040 framework and plans to achieve zero neutrality (net-zero) by 2050.
Al-Hinai added that this event, being held in the Middle East for the first time, is a high-level international platform for exchanging expertise and discussing developments in energy regulatory policies.
It contributes in enhancing integration among member states and highlighting Oman's role as a leading country striving to build a sustainable economy based on innovation and modern technology.
For her part, ERRA's Chair Andrijana Nelkova Chuchuk, praised Oman's efforts in implementing innovative energy solutions, emphasizing that Oman's experience represents a unique model in its ability to achieve a balance between market efficiency and environmental sustainability, economic competitiveness, and climate responsibility.
In a similar speech, she stated that Oman is a strategic partner capable of influencing the global energy governance system, particularly with market management, regulating interoperability, and stimulating and attracting investments in energy projects.
The conference will discuss a number of vital issues that keep pace with global challenges, including improving the efficiency of regulatory systems, promoting investments in renewable energy, and anticipating the impact of technological developments on the future of energy.
It will also feature a number of specialized dialogue sessions and interactive workshops with the participation of leading experts and policymakers from around the world, bilateral meetings will be held to discuss opportunities for joint cooperation and explore partnership prospects in various energy sectors.
The association is one of the most prominent international regulatory groups in the energy sector, with 47 member organizations from 43 countries, it enables regulatory bodies to exchange expertise, build effective policies, and develop legislative frameworks to ensure a balance between production efficiency, resource sustainability, market fairness, and the achievement of sustainable development goals. (end) nfa.res
All KUNA right are reserved © 2022. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Tourism Breaking News
2 days ago
- Tourism Breaking News
Oman hospitality sector welcomed 820,365 guests in 2024 : OMRAN
Post Views: 47 The Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group) announced that the hospitality sector welcomed 820,365 guests across its hotel portfolio in 2024 — a 6% increase compared to the previous year. The portfolio achieved an average occupancy rate of 45%, marking a 2.6% increase year-on-year. A major milestone was achieved with the official opening of JW Marriott Muscat, further enriching the luxury hospitality landscape in the Sultanate of Oman. As part of its efforts to position Oman as a premier luxury tourism destination on the global map and to attract the world's leading hospitality brands, OMRAN Group announced several strategic projects, most notably the Middle East's first Club Med Resort that will be developed in Musandam, and the signing of a strategic partnership with Santani Wellness Resorts to introduce wellness tourism in Al Dakhiliyah Governorate. The Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group) has announced strong financial and operational results, underscoring the Group's sustained efforts and corporate excellence in advancing tourism development and supporting sustainable economic growth in the Sultanate of Oman, in close collaboration with key stakeholders. In 2024, the Group recorded a net profit of OMR 25.2 million and total revenues exceeding OMR 58.3 million, reflecting operational efficiency and the high standards of excellence embraced across its business operations. These achievements were presented during the Group's recent Board of Directors meeting, where the Board reaffirmed its continued commitment to reinforcing the Group's role in advancing economic diversification and amplifying its impact as a key catalyst for tourism development and investment in the Sultanate. Demonstrating its ability to attract high-quality investments, OMRAN Group secured over OMR 156 million in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) during 2024. This achievement aligns with Oman Vision 2040 and the national efforts to boost FDI inflows and enhance the contribution of various economic sectors to the GDP. Reinforcing its commitment to sustainability and local value creation, the Group achieved a 40% In-Country Value Index in 2024, with total spending exceeding OMR 19 million in support of SMEs, which accounted for 34.7% of overall procurement spending. Furthermore, the Group created 370 new job opportunities for local talents, achieving an Omanisation rate of 94% within Oman Tourism Development Company SAOC and 53% across the Group, highlighting its dedication to empowering national talent and supporting the local economy. In line with its vision to enhance corporate governance practices, OMRAN Group launched its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Framework during the year, reinforcing its commitment to global sustainability standards, transparency, and excellence across all its operations and projects. The positive results achieved by OMRAN Group in 2024 reaffirm its leading role as a catalyst for tourism development in the Sultanate of Oman. Through pioneering projects, strategic partnerships, and innovative initiatives, the Group continues to strengthen its position and contribute to Oman's journey towards a diversified and sustainable economy.
Filipino Times
2 days ago
- Filipino Times
UAE President leads Eid Al-Adha prayer in Abu Dhabi, highlights devotion to faith and country
UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan led the Eid Al-Adha prayer this morning at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi. The Eid sermon, titled 'Our Eid is Devotion', was delivered by Dr. Khalifa Al Dhaheri, Chancellor of Mohamed bin Zayed University for Humanities. He spoke about devotion as a key part of faith and daily life, encouraging sincerity in prayer and loyalty in action. He emphasized that the highest form of devotion is to God, but it must also be shown through commitment to family, service to the country, and compassion in the community. Dr. Al Dhaheri explained that those who are truly devoted to their country protect its reputation, respect its laws, and help preserve its culture while contributing to its growth. He concluded by reminding worshippers that devotion brings acceptance in worship, unity in families, loyalty to the nation, and excellence in one's work. After the prayer, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan exchanged Eid greetings with worshippers and joined fellow sheikhs in reciting Al-Fatihah for the soul of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The UAE President was joined by His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court; His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi; His Highness Sheikh Suroor bin Mohammed Al Nahyan; His Highness Sheikh Nahyan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Zayed Charitable and Humanitarian Foundation; and His Highness Lieutenant General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior. Also present were His Highness Sheikh Hamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan; His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs; His Highness Sheikh Omar bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan Charitable and Humanitarian Foundation; His Highness Sheikh Khalid bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Board of Zayed Higher Organisation for People of Determination; His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, Adviser to the UAE President; and His Highness Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes' Affairs. His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Special Affairs; His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan; His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan; Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence; and Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Tahnoun Al Nahyan, Adviser to the UAE President, also joined the prayer, along with several other sheikhs, officials, and worshippers.
Arabian Post
3 days ago
- Arabian Post
Syria Grants Inspectors Full Access to Former Nuclear Sites
Syria's transitional government has authorised immediate access for United Nations nuclear inspectors to several long-suspected former nuclear sites, marking a significant shift in the country's stance on nuclear transparency. Rafael Mariano Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency , confirmed the development following high-level meetings in Damascus with President Ahmad al-Sharaa. Grossi described the new leadership as 'committed to opening up to the world' and expressed optimism that the inspection process could be completed within months. The IAEA's renewed access will focus on clarifying Syria's past nuclear activities, particularly concerning the facility in Deir el-Zour, which was destroyed by Israeli airstrikes in 2007. The agency had previously assessed that the site was 'very likely' an undeclared nuclear reactor intended for weapons-grade plutonium production, a conclusion Syria had long contested. ADVERTISEMENT Under the former administration of Bashar al-Assad, Syria had consistently limited cooperation with the IAEA, denying inspectors full access to key sites and offering explanations that the agency found unconvincing. Traces of uranium were detected at multiple locations, including the Miniature Neutron Source Reactor in Damascus and a facility in Homs, raising concerns about undeclared nuclear materials and activities. Grossi indicated that the IAEA plans to revisit the Deir el-Zour site, as well as three other locations associated with Syria's historical nuclear efforts. He emphasised the agency's concern that enriched uranium, if unaccounted for, could be susceptible to smuggling or misuse. President al-Sharaa, who assumed office following Assad's departure in December, has signalled a willingness to engage with international institutions and explore peaceful nuclear energy applications. Grossi noted that al-Sharaa expressed interest in developing nuclear energy for civilian purposes, aligning with regional trends where countries like Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, and Jordan are pursuing nuclear energy initiatives. The IAEA also aims to assist Syria in rebuilding its nuclear medicine and oncology infrastructure, which has been severely impacted by over a decade of civil conflict. Grossi stated that the agency is prepared to transfer equipment and expertise to support the country's healthcare system. The European Union has welcomed Syria's renewed cooperation with the IAEA but has called for further steps, including the conclusion and implementation of an Additional Protocol to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty . Such a protocol would grant the IAEA expanded rights of access and information, enhancing the agency's ability to verify the peaceful nature of Syria's nuclear programme. Japan has similarly urged Syria to fully cooperate with the IAEA and to conclude an Additional Protocol without delay. Japanese officials have emphasised the importance of resolving outstanding issues related to Syria's past nuclear activities to restore international confidence.
