IEA Presents 2004 World Energy Outlook at Joint BIAC/MEDEF Roundtable 29 November

  The series of blackouts in 2003, high oil prices, and the geo-political situation in some countries have reminded us how fragile the energy system can be. An unexpected increase in demand from a growing world economy, in particular from China, adds to the concerns about future supply. But economic growth can only be sustained if a secure, reliable and affordable supply of energy is ensured.

  To discuss some of these challenges, BIAC and MEDEF, our French member organisation, jointly organised a roundtable on "Reliable Energy Supply for Economic Growth: New Challenges for Energy Security and Investment", focusing in particular on Russia and China.

MEDEF kindly agreed to host the roundtable, which was held on the afternoon of 29 November.

  On the occasion of this meeting, Mr. Claude Mandil, Executive Director of IEA, presented the main findings of the 2004 IEA World Energy Outlook to underpin subsequent discussions. In addition to supply and demand projections to 2030, the 2004 WEO contains focus chapters on Russia and a detailed analysis of world oil and gas reserves.

  For further information, please contact Hanni Rosenbaum at the BIAC Secretariat.