Doha, October 23 (QNA) Qatar Energy added Shell to the list of its partners in the expansion project of the North-South Field; To be the second company after Total Energy, according to a partnership agreement signed by the two sides today.

The project, which was signed by the Minister of State for Energy Affairs, Managing Director and CEO of Qatar Energy, and Mr. Ben van Beurden, CEO of Shell, includes two giant LNG production lines with a total capacity of 16 million tons annually. This will raise Qatar's production capacity of liquefied natural gas to 126 million tons per year in 2027.

Under the agreement, Shell will own 9.375 percent of the total international partnership shares of 25 percent, while Qatar Energy will own the remaining 75 percent of the project.

His Excellency the Minister of State for Energy Affairs stressed, in a press conference, that Qatar Energy continues to harness its efforts to provide cleaner energy to all parts of the world. For greater growth and a better future for all.

His Excellency said: "The new quantities of LNG that Qatar Energy will provide to the markets come at a time when natural gas occupies great importance in light of the recent geopolitical fluctuations, and in light of the urgent need for cleaner energy sources that meet global environmental goals. A growing global interest not only in energy security, but also in a practical transition to low-carbon energy, and with fair and equitable access to cleaner energy sources.

On the possibility of expanding the partnership between Qatar Energy and Shell in other projects, His Excellency affirmed that the company is open to discussing cooperation with Shell in all energy sectors.

Separately, Ben van Beurden, CEO of Shell, commenting on the temporary cap on natural gas prices in Europe, said EU politicians understand that the plan is complex, adding: “I am sure this will be settled in an appropriate and responsible manner. It will really benefit markets and consumers in Europe."

It is noteworthy that the North Field Expansion Project, which consists of the eastern and southern parts, is the largest project in the history of the LNG industry, and production will start in 2026, adding 48 million tons per year to the world’s LNG supplies by 2027.

This unique project is characterized by the highest standards of health, safety and environment, including carbon capture and sequestration with the aim of reducing the project's total carbon footprint to the lowest possible levels.