President's Message – 2026 Annual General Meeting
Good afternoon everyone,
It is my pleasure to welcome you to the 2026 Annual General Meeting of the Canadian Global Energy Forum.
As I reflect on the past year, I am reminded that our industry operates in a world that is changing rapidly. The political and economic landscape has shifted considerably, both here in Canada and internationally. Energy security has once again become a central priority for governments, businesses and citizens around the world.
The pendulum has swung decisively toward ensuring access to reliable, affordable and secure energy. Hydrocarbon-based energy is no longer viewed through the same lens it was even a year ago. Recent geopolitical events have reminded governments and investors alike that dependable base-load energy remains fundamental to economic prosperity, national security and social stability.
At the same time, environmental stewardship and responsible development remain critical priorities. The future of energy will not be built by choosing one solution over another, but by combining conventional energy, emerging technologies and responsible operating practices in practical and sustainable ways.
This is where Canadian companies hold a distinct competitive advantage.
Canadian energy companies have earned a global reputation for technical excellence, innovation, environmental leadership and ethical business practices. Whether developing conventional oil and gas resources, carbon capture projects, geothermal opportunities, hydrogen initiatives or other emerging technologies, Canadian expertise continues to be highly sought after around the world.
Encouragingly, capital markets are once again showing renewed interest in the energy sector. While financing international projects is never easy, access to capital has improved significantly compared to even a year ago. For many of our members, that access to capital is essential to competing successfully on the international stage.
The maple leaf remains one of the most respected symbols in international energy development. A Canadian presence on a project continues to be associated with integrity, technical competence and responsible operations. We should be proud of that reputation and continue working to strengthen it.
These developments reinforce the importance of CGEF's mission.
Our three pillars remain unchanged:
• Networking
• Education
• Exposure to International Investment Opportunities
Everything we do continues to be guided by these principles.
Over the past year, CGEF has continued to grow both its influence and its impact.
Increasingly, we are being approached by governments, embassies, trade commissioners, industry organizations and foreign delegations seeking access to Canadian expertise and insight into Canada's energy sector. We are proud to be recognized as one of the leading voices representing Canadian energy companies operating internationally.
Our membership remains strong, and attendance at our luncheons, webinars and networking events continues to grow. Over the past year we have explored topics ranging from carbon capture and geothermal development to global natural gas markets, National Oil Companies in Latin America, energy security and international investment opportunities across Europe, Central Asia, Africa and the Americas.
Our webinar series with Enverus has continued to evolve by combining market intelligence with industry professionals who provide real-world, boots-on-the-ground perspectives from the countries where they operate. These insights continue to be highly valued by our members and remain a unique part of what CGEF offers.
International engagement remains one of our defining strengths.
Over the past year, CGEF members and representatives have participated in conferences, trade missions and investment initiatives across multiple continents. We have hosted and supported visiting delegations, worked closely with government agencies and trade commissioners, and helped create direct connections between Canadian expertise and international opportunities.
We are particularly encouraged by the growing interest we see from international governments and organizations seeking Canadian participation in their energy sectors. This reflects both the strength of Canadian expertise and the reputation our industry has built over many decades.
Financially, the organization remains in a strong position thanks to disciplined management, strong membership support, successful sponsorship efforts and government programs that support international engagement.
I would like to extend a special thank you to our sponsors, whose support allows us to deliver high-quality programming while keeping membership costs accessible.
None of this would be possible without our volunteers.
CGEF remains a volunteer-driven organization, and I would like to sincerely thank our Board of Directors, Advisors, committee members and volunteers for the countless hours they contribute throughout the year. The success of CGEF is a direct reflection of their commitment and professionalism.
Looking ahead, one of the greatest challenges facing our industry is workforce renewal.
A tremendous amount of experience and technical knowledge is approaching retirement, while artificial intelligence and digital technologies are transforming the way we work. These new tools will improve productivity and decision-making, but they cannot replace experience, mentorship and professional judgment.
For that reason, attracting and engaging younger professionals will remain one of CGEF's strategic priorities.
As we move into the coming year, our objectives are straightforward:
• Grow membership;
• Increase member engagement;
• Expand international opportunities for our members;
• Deliver high-quality educational programming;
• Strengthen sponsorship and financial sustainability; and
• Continue positioning CGEF as Canada's leading organization supporting energy companies operating internationally.
Most importantly, we want to hear from you.
This is your organization. Your ideas, feedback and participation will help shape our priorities and ensure that CGEF continues to provide meaningful value to its members.
In closing, I would like to thank our members, sponsors, volunteers, Directors and Advisors for your continued support and confidence.
Canadian energy companies continue to make a positive impact around the world. Through innovation, technical excellence and responsible development, they have earned a reputation that is respected globally. We should be proud of that reputation, continue strengthening it, and continue creating opportunities for Canadian companies abroad.
It has been an honour to serve as your President.
Thank you for your continued support of the Canadian Global Energy Forum.