FUELS 2006 to address major challenges and issues affecting the development of the refining and fuels industries

'It is widely acknowledged that the global shortage of refinery capacity, as opposed to a lack of spare crude oil capacity, is primarily responsible for the recent price escalations of oil related products,' said Steve Church, Managing Director of Downstream Connection, who is the event organiser.

FUELS 2006 will not only address the concerns of refinery capacity, but will also examine other key issues such as refinery upgrades, improved product quality and the future of alternative transportation fuels such as natural gas and biodiesel.

The timing of the event is also particularly significant, with the opening day coinciding with National Environment Day in the UAE. The 4th of February marks the establishment of the Federal Environmental Agency (FEA) in the UAE in 1993, who were the first agency dealing with environmental issues at federal level.

'In addition to the involvement of the FEA, we are honoured to have secured the support and involvement of Abu Dhabi Oil Refining Company (TAKREER), who are confirmed as the event's Principal Sponsor,' said Church. 'TAKREER are one of many companies throughout the region who have taken considerable steps during recent times to not only cope with the growing demand of the gasoline market, but to also attain higher product specification and improved levels of quality,' he added.

Other key industry figures speaking at the event include Mr. Sami F. Al Rushaid, Chairman & Managing Director of Kuwait National Petroleum Company (KNPC), Mr. Jamal Ba-Amer, General Manager of Société Anonyme Marocaine De L'industrie Du Raffinage (SAMIR) from Morocco and Mr. Awadhesh N. Sinha, Managing Director & CEO of ESSAR OIL LIMITED from India.

'As the international drive towards cleaner fuels continues, the region must continue to develop its own policies and capabilities. Compliance with tighter worldwide fuel specifications will ensure the future success of the region's refining industry, particularly for those whom the export of products to international markets is of vital strategic importance,' Church concluded.