On October 4, members of the International Gas Union met to discuss the results of the International Scientific and Research Conference of the Gas Union and preparations for the upcoming World Gas Congress to be held in 2018.

The International Gas Union (IGU) is a worldwide non-profit organization that acts as the representative of the gas industry all over the world. IGU members provide 95% of natural gas production in the world. IGU’s mission is to promote political, technical and economic progress of the gas industry, increasing the competitiveness of gas in the world energy markets. IGU advocates full transparency of the industry and focuses its efforts on increasing the availability of gas for the population, as well as on removing barriers in the field of gas supply and ensuring access to the market. Besides that, the organization helps develop solutions that make gas environmentally beneficial and boost gas production safety, transmission, distribution and use. To date, it is the largest international organization conducting multifaceted research work through its committees and ad hoc working groups. Russia has been participating in the activities of IGU since 1957. Gazprom PJSC is Russia's full member of IGU. IGU membership of Gazprom provides an opportunity to participate in the key areas of development of the gas industry and gas market, sharing information and best practices with the world's leading industry companies.

Mel Ydreos, representative of the International Gas Union, spoke about the strategic plan for the promotion of IGU from 2015 up until 2018. The main focus is on vigorous propaganda and cooperation with the main strategic partners and influential figures of the industry. One of the tasks for this three-year period is to increase the share of gas in the world market. Mr Ydreos pointed out that IGU members need to take part in major events to strengthen the position of natural gas and ensure effective communication and engagement with the IGU leadership.