OPEC Secretary General Haitham Al Ghais stated that they have “full confidence” in China’s economy and described the country as a “strategic partner” for OPEC member states. Speaking in an exclusive interview with Xinhua News Agency during the 9th OPEC International Seminar held in Vienna, Al Ghais emphasized that China is a well-structured economy with strong planning and forward-looking projections.
Having served nearly four years as the head of Kuwait Petroleum Corporation’s representative office in Beijing, Al Ghais said he had first-hand experience observing China’s development. He noted that energy relations between OPEC member countries and China remain strong, with regular dialogue held annually at both technical and high levels. Chinese energy companies are investing in OPEC countries, while some OPEC members are also investing in China’s petroleum refining sector, he added.
Referring to OPEC’s June market report, Al Ghais said China maintained steady economic growth in the first half of the year despite external pressures such as U.S. tariff policies. The report also highlighted China’s robust export performance and resilient domestic consumption. Al Ghais pointed out that one of the biggest global challenges in the energy sector is underinvestment, which could lead to future issues related to energy access and affordability. He also underlined the persistence of energy poverty in many regions, stressing the need for global solutions.