Libyan Minister of Oil and Gas Mohamed Aoun affirmed that his country continues to send natural gas to Europe through the Greenstream pipeline, Wam news agency reported.

This came on the sidelines of his participation in the activities of the 8th OPEC International Seminar, which was launched in Vienna. 

Aoun noted that an increase in gas exports is currently unfeasible, but could be considered in the future, after five years.

Additionally, the Minister revealed that Libya has developed a short-term strategic plan to increase its oil production to 2 million barrels per day (bbl/d), through developing the  newly discovered fields and raising the production capacity of existing fields. This is in addition to developing the infrastructure that was damaged due to the events that happened in Libya.

He added that the Libyan National Oil Corporation’s (NOC) plan aims to dissolve any obstacles facing the sector, expanding onshore and offshore exploration operations.  This is in addition to using natural gas as source for producing electricity during the coming decades. 

Regarding environmental concerns and limiting climate change issues, Aoun pointed that this will be done by stopping the burning of gas from oil fields and in oil operations. He also suggested focusing on producing electricity from lucrative renewable energy sources, while also developing the technical, administrative, and financial capabilities of the sector, and training youth.