[CIGS Seminar] Lecture by Dr. Fatih Birol, Executive Director, IEA

On the morning of 14 September (10am – 11am) 2026, the Canon Institute for Global Studies organized a seminar with Dr. Fatih Birol, Executive Director of International Energy Agency as the speaker.

【Introductory Remarks—Research Director Sadamori and Dr. Fatih Birol, Executive Director, IEA】

The main topic of Dr. Birol’s speech was energy security. He argued that energy and geopolitics have always been interwoven, but we are seeing dominance of geopolitics in energy. Global energy map is being redrawn as 2 major arteries for oil and gas trade, Western Siberia to Europe and Middle East to Asia, have been disrupted. Changes in crude prices have not represented the true scale of impact when diesel prices have been extremely high. Beyond prices, we are seeing increase in clean energy technologies like EV, solar PV and use of coal.

Governments are reassessing energy choices being more affected by geopolitical risks. We are also seeing stronger push for diversification in sources and routes. Renewables and nuclear are benefiting. As seen in 400 mb release by IEA, international cooperation is more important. 

Impacts from the closure of the Strait of Hormuz have been the most acute in developing Asia. IEA is strengthening engagement with Asia through Regional Cooperation Center in Singapore. Japan’s leadership in POWERR Asia Initiative to enhance energy security in the region is commendable. Dr. Birol concluded his speech saying that “trust” is the most important commodity in the energy world today.