Saudi energy minister: Alternative pipelines cost far less than their absence

Saudi Arabia is bolstering its energy resilience by constructing alternative pipelines, according to Energy Minister Abdulaziz bin Salman. The minister stated that while the costs of developing this infrastructure are significant, they pale in comparison to the financial risks of not having such alternatives during times of crisis.

Addressing the International Energy Forum's opening, the energy minister emphasized the importance of global cooperation to enhance energy security, highlighting Saudi Arabia's dedication to this cause. Referring to Riyadh as the "capital of energy security," the minister underscored resilience as a cornerstone of the Saudi economy.

He elaborated that the East-West oil pipeline exemplifies the Kingdom's commitment to ensuring a steady supply of energy to global markets. Salman revealed plans to develop additional pipelines to offer more strategic routes for transporting oil and energy. He noted that while building and maintaining energy infrastructure demands substantial investment and time, the cost of not having alternatives is exponentially higher, particularly given geopolitical tensions and potential disruptions to traditional shipping lanes.

The East-West pipeline, he added, provides a critical path for oil transport away from crowded maritime routes, bolstering supply reliability and resilience. Concluding his remarks, the energy minister reiterated Saudi Arabia's steadfast commitment to its energy sector ambitions, declaring that "nothing and no one can stand in the way of these ambitions."