International Energy Agency Meets German Chancellor Friedrich Merz In Berlin To Assess Middle East Conflict Impacts On Global Energy Markets And Supply Chains

The meetings in Berlin brought a strong focus on how the ongoing crisis in the Middle East is affecting global energy markets, supply chains and price stability. IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol met with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and several senior government ministers to review the risks created by regional tensions and to consider policy measures that could protect consumers and support energy-intensive industries during this challenging period.

In the meeting between Chancellor Merz and Dr. Birol, discussions covered several crucial issues. They examined the impact of the near closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a major route for global oil and gas flows, and how this disruption could influence energy supplies and economic activity worldwide. They also reviewed the IEA’s ongoing work to help governments respond to these disruptions, including market analysis, emergency planning and coordination with international partners. Another key topic was the vital role of energy-intensive industries in sectors tied to both economic stability and national security, and the need to ensure their resilience during market uncertainty.

During his visit, Dr. Birol also held a bilateral meeting with Germany’s Minister for Economic Affairs and Energy, Katherina Reiche. Their discussions focused on the latest conditions in oil and gas markets, the evolving nature of the energy crisis, and how the IEA is supporting countries through its response measures. He also met with Carsten Schneider, the Minister for Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety, to examine the environmental and energy implications of the conflict in the Middle East and to discuss the outlook for different fuels and emerging technologies.

While in Berlin, Dr. Birol delivered a speech during the high-level segment of the Petersberg Climate Dialogue, where Chancellor Merz was also present. In his remarks, he explained the broader consequences of the current energy crisis, the way policy decisions made now could shape the long-term global energy landscape, and the importance of keeping industrial competitiveness strong as economies navigate these pressures. He also held a bilateral meeting with Türkiye’s Minister of Environment, Urbanisation and Climate Change, Murat Kurum, who is serving as the President-Designate for COP31 scheduled to take place in Antalya later this year.