With these words, His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Energy, opened the 25th WPC Energy Congress in Riyadh, demonstrating a leadership defined by calm in the face of adversity, the ability to inspire and the determination to lead by example.

He challenged his audience to name another country that has undergone such an extraordinary transformation in so short a time. His answer was unequivocal: “None but Saudi Arabia.”

But his message went further. At a moment when global energy security is being tested, Prince Abdulaziz reminded the world that resilience is built long before a crisis begins.

He pointed to the Kingdom’s East–West Pipeline, connecting its eastern production centres to the Red Sea, as an example of strategic foresight. Its importance today, and the ability to restore operations following recent damage, reflect decades of investment in infrastructure, technology, industrial capabilities and, above all, people.

His message was as practical as it was profound: energy security cannot be taken for granted. Investment must continue, even when circumstances are difficult, because the decisions made today will determine the security of future generations.

“There can be no energy future for all without energy security for all.”

Through his opening remarks, Prince Abdulaziz made clear that Saudi Arabia remains determined to shape its future, honour its international commitments and continue investing in the capabilities that underpin its resilience.

A message of leadership, responsibility and resolve, delivered at a moment when all three matter enormously.