Germany is actively looking for an alternative source of Russian gas

“Germany needs more liquefied natural gas. Temporarily and in the short term we want this to reach German stations. On the other hand, we must accelerate the transition from conventional natural gas to green hydrogen.” , German Economy Minister Robert Habeck said.

Mr. Robert Habeck said, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) play an important, central role so that Germany can achieve those goals.

As expected, German Economy Minister Robert Habeck will travel to Qatar on March 19, where he will meet Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani. He will visit the UAE one day and then hold talks with some of its ministers.

Few countries are as dependent on Russian energy imports as Germany. Europe’s top economy imported about 55% of its natural gas from Russia before Moscow launched its military campaign against Ukraine.

Earlier this month, German Economy Minister Robert Habeck visited the Norwegian gas exporter and the US LNG supplier. Germany and Norway have also agreed to study the possibility of building a hydrogen pipeline between the two countries.

“The outcome of the discussions we are having with Norway, the US, Canada, Qatar will lead to more liquefied gas going to Europe and Germany.”Mr. Habeck said.

Berlin has been criticized for opposing Russia’s oil and gas boycott as part of sanctions against Moscow. Germany fears sanctions against Russia could cripple its economy and drive up energy prices.

However, Germany aims to end most of its oil imports from Russia by the end of the year, and the removal of Russian gas will take longer.