Manama: Dr. Mohammed bin Mubarak bin Dainah, Minister of Oil and Environment and Special Envoy for Climate Affairs, emphasised that the Kingdom of Bahrain places significant importance on advancing the refining and energy sector, while supporting initiatives that enhance production efficiency and promote the adoption of advanced technologies, particularly in residual fuel oil processing and catalyst technologies, in line with national sustainable development goals.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the minister noted that specialised conferences play an important role in supporting national energy policies by strengthening regional and international cooperation, facilitating knowledge exchange, and showcasing the latest technological solutions. He added that Bahrain's hosting of such events reflects its standing as a leading regional hub for the refining and energy industries.
This came during the opening of the 12th Middle East Bottom of the Barrel and Catalyst Technology Conference 2026, held in the presence of Dr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, Acting Managing Director of Bapco Energies and Chief Executive Officer of Bapco Refining, with the participation of a distinguished group of experts and specialists from around the world.
On his part, Dr. Jawahery said the conference serves as an advanced technical platform for addressing operational challenges and exploring future opportunities in the refining industry. He noted that hosting the event aligns with Bapco Energies Group's strategy to strengthen global partnerships and expand cooperation with leading international energy companies and institutions.
Dr. Jawahery added that Bapco Refining represents a leading model in adopting advanced technologies and applying international best practices in refining operations. The refinery, he added, has undergone continuous development of its operational systems and the deployment of advanced technical solutions, contributing to higher production efficiency, improved product quality, and compliance with the highest approved environmental standards.
Dr. Jawahery also highlighted that the continued support of His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Representative of His Majesty the King for Humanitarian Work and Youth Affairs and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Bapco Energies Group, has reinforced a culture of innovation, strengthened international partnerships, and enhanced the global standing of the group's companies, supporting the sustainability of Bahrain's energy sector amid rapid industry developments.
The conference features specialised sessions covering the latest technologies in residual fuel oil processing, catalyst development for refining operations, and improvements in operational unit efficiency, alongside innovative solutions to technical and environmental challenges in the sector, with broad participation from international experts and speakers.
The accompanying exhibition also saw the participation of several leading global companies, which showcased the latest oil refining practices, conversion unit operations, and catalyst innovations, enhancing opportunities for partnership and knowledge exchange among participants.