A high-level ministerial panel on the opening day of India Energy Week 2026 recently underscored the need for pragmatic energy policies, sustained investment and stronger international cooperation to manage growing geopolitical and market uncertainty. The session focused on securing affordable, accessible and sustainable energy in a rapidly changing global landscape.

Participating in the discussion were Hardeep Singh Puri, Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Government of India; Tim Hodgson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Canada; and Jassim Al Shirawi, Secretary General of the International Energy Forum.

The panel highlighted that rising demand from emerging economies, combined with geopolitical tensions and shifting trade dynamics, has brought energy security, affordability and sustainability into sharper focus. Speakers agreed that there is no single transition pathway suitable for all countries and that a balanced, inclusive approach is essential.

From India’s perspective, Hardeep Singh Puri emphasised that energy availability is critical for economic growth and national resilience. He noted that India has managed recent global disruptions by diversifying energy sources, expanding supplier geographies and implementing reforms across the energy value chain. He reiterated that the global transition should be based on energy addition rather than abrupt replacement, supported by stable and predictable markets.

Tim Hodgson highlighted the importance of trusted partnerships and diversified supply chains in a more fragmented global trading environment. He expressed Canada’s interest in deepening cooperation with India across LNG, oil supplies and critical minerals, stressing the role of middle powers in supporting free and reliable energy trade.

Providing a global outlook, Jassim Al Shirawi noted that population growth, urbanisation and industrialisation will continue to drive energy demand, with oil and gas remaining important alongside renewables and electrification. He cautioned that underinvestment and supply-chain constraints could pose risks to energy security, calling for sustained dialogue between producers and consumers.

The panel concluded that navigating uncertainty will require realism, adaptability and cooperation, with continued investment across oil, gas, LNG, grids, critical minerals and emerging technologies to ensure a resilient and affordable global energy transition.