The energy ministers of Israel, the United States, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain — Yuval Steinitz, Dan Brouillette, Suhail al Mazrouei and Mohammed bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, respectively — participated Dec. 14 in a historic, quadruple virtual meeting, with the goal to establish a platform for a comprehensive dialogue on energy issues. The new platform will facilitate the exchange of ideas and the creation of joint ventures in the fields of petrol, natural gas, electricity, efficient use of energy, renewable energies, research and development, and more.

The four ministers said they hope for other countries in the region to join the platform in the future, once these countries establish ties with Israel. They also said the group intends to work with the Palestinians to find solutions for the energy challenges they face. In particular, the four countries will study possible solutions on energy sources, electricity, infrastructure and technology.

Steinitz said yesterday that "the historic meeting is a significant milestone that will lead to the promotion of joint ventures between us and the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and the United States in various energy-related fields. The new platform we have created will allow more countries to join energy projects in the private and public sectors, and it will help the region thrive. The Abraham Accords opened up many opportunities for Israel's economy and security." In a tweet later on, he also noted that the meeting was "a milestone that will enable advancing joint processes in the fields of petrol and natural gas, electricity, efficient use of energy and research.’’

The US mission to the UAE tweeted after the meeting, "Today, Secretary of Energy Dan Brouillette participated in a historic Abraham Accords Energy Ministerial.’’ Brouillette himself tweeted, "I believe that the Abraham Accords and forums such as the East Mediterranean Gas Forum demonstrate how connectivity ensures a more cooperative and prosperous future for the region.’’