Next Executive Director of the International Energy Agency

Selection of the Next Executive Director of the International Energy Agency

Press Statement
Jen Psaki
Department Spokesperson
Washington, DC
February 13, 2015

On February 12, the Governing Board of the International Energy Agency (IEA), announced the selection of Dr. Fatih Birol, the current IEA Chief Economist, Director of Global Energy Economics, as the next IEA Executive Director, with a term beginning later this year. The Department offers its congratulations to Dr. Birol. The State Department and the Department of Energy represent the United States at the IEA, an international organization based in Paris.

Recent uncertainty in world energy markets, concerns over European energy security issues, and the tremendous growth in energy demand by emerging markets all underscore the continued importance of the International Energy Agency and its role as an institution of global energy governance. The IEA provides a critical mechanism for coordinated international emergency response among 29 member countries to oil market disruptions, as well as transparent and timely market data. It is at the heart of global dialogue on energy, providing authoritative statistics, analysis and recommendations to member states. The IEA has also expanded its role to helping member countries and international fora understand the global opportunities for transitioning to low-carbon, 21st century energy systems.

ENDS

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