World Energy Demand Growth is Cause for Economic Optimism, Says Tillerson

ExxonMobil CEO Addresses 20th World Petroleum Congress in Qatar
Projections of population and energy demand growth provide
opportunities for economic advancement
Sound policies, industry operational integrity and public awareness of
energy literacy and efficiency are key elements in meeting energy
challenges
Qatar 'a beacon of energy prosperity? as a result of policies and
stable investment climate
Future growth in world energy demand is a cause for optimism because it
will signal economic recovery and progress, Rex W. Tillerson, chairman
and chief executive officer of Exxon Mobil Corporation (NYSE:XOM), said
today.
ExxonMobil is forecasting the global economy to more than double in size
between 2010 and 2040, and during that time energy demand will grow by
more than 30 percent. In order to meet that demand, the world needs to
invest in and develop all economically competitive sources of energy.
Projections of significant population growth combined with expanding
trade, new technologies, and transformative economic opportunities will
drive economic expansion and rising standards of living ? particularly
in the developing world, Tillerson said in a speech to the 20th
World Petroleum Congress in Doha.
'The energy and economic challenges the world will face in the decades
to come require a business and policy climate that enables investment,
innovation and international cooperation. Sound policies and government
leadership are critical. When governments perform their roles
effectively, the results are extraordinary ? bringing enormous benefits
in terms of investment, enterprise, economic growth and job creation.?
Tillerson said that the key to unlocking new economic growth was for
industry, governments and society at large to focus on their respective
roles and responsibilities.
'By understanding our strengths and proper roles in economic expansion,
we can clarify our policy choices, fulfill our core responsibilities and
open up economic opportunities for decades to come,? he said.
Government has a responsibility to provide a stable and fair legal, tax
and regulatory framework; industry needs to invest with discipline to
develop energy in a safe and environmentally responsible way; and the
public also has a role to play, Tillerson said.
'Citizens and consumers need to understand the importance of energy, the
vital role it plays in economic and social development, and how sound
policy supports responsible energy development and use. The debates and
discussions in society at large need to be informed by the facts and
fundamental realities of the challenges before us.′′
Tillerson said the state of Qatar is a leading example of what can be
done when policies are in place to enable investment and innovation.
'In just over a decade, Qatar has risen to become the world′s leading
supplier of liquefied natural gas. In the process, the nation has
unleashed its own economic growth, supported innovation, spurred job
creation and strengthened the energy diversity that allows free markets
to maximize the value of national resources for producers and consumers.
Qatar is a beacon of energy prosperity.?
Tillerson said the current economic challenges will not last forever.
'There is reason for optimism but it is more important than ever that we
swiftly take on these challenges with a sound and principled response,?
he said. 'History proves that energy policies that are efficient and
market-based are the best path to economic growth and technological
progress.?
About ExxonMobil
ExxonMobil,
the largest publicly traded international oil and gas company, uses
technology and innovation to help meet the world′s growing energy needs.
ExxonMobil holds an industry-leading inventory of resources, is the
largest refiner and marketer of petroleum products, and its chemical
company is one of the largest in the world.
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