The global energy landscape is undergoing a major transformation, and the Middle East and North Africa region sits at the heart of this transition. As energy producers balance between traditional fossil fuel exports and ambitious renewable energy goals, market volatility and shifting geopolitical alliances are creating deep uncertainty. The recent disruptions in oil and gas flows, coupled with fluctuating prices and the accelerating global push for decarbonization, are redefining the region’s economic outlook and its role in global energy security.
At the same time, maritime trade routes, particularly the Suez Canal and the Red Sea corridor, are facing growing risks from regional tensions, thus causing supply chain disruptions directly affecting the energy supply and causing Energy security risks especially in Countries that rely on imported fuel. The intersection of energy market instability and maritime vulnerability has exposed new fault lines that threaten both regional growth and global trade continuity.
This session brings together leading experts, policymakers, and industry leaders to explore how regional actors can navigate this dual challenge: ensuring energy security while maintaining the stability of critical maritime routes. The discussion will focus on innovative energy strategies, the balance between fossil fuels and renewables, and how regional cooperation can mitigate risks that extend far beyond national borders.
SPEAKERS
Kabir Taneja
Deputy Director and Middle East Fellow, Strategic Studies Programme, Observer Research Foundation (ORF)
Mohamed Sherine El Naggar
Chairman, Naggar Shipping Company, & International Expert for Connectivity
Marwan El Sammak
Chairman & CEO, Ship & CREW S.A.E. and Vice Chairman of Alexandria Chamber of Shipping
Steffen Krueger
Country Director Egypt, Konrad Adenauer Foundation (KAS)
Linda Mabhena-Olagunju
Founder and CEO, DLO Energy Resources Group
MODERATOR
Heba Saleh
Financial Times Cairo Correspondent