Doha: Deputy Prime Minister and former Minister of Energy and Industry Abdullah bin Hamad Al Attiyah, affirmed that Qatar has become a formidable figure in the gas sector that is difficult to surpass, thanks to its robust infrastructure and extensive history in the energy sector. This came during an open discussion held with him on the main stage at the 33rd Doha International Book Fair in the presence of HE Minister of Culture Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Hamad Al-Thani and several prominent figures, thinkers, and intellectuals. He spoke about the beginning of his tenure as Minister of Energy and Industry in 1992 and the challenges he faced at that time, explaining that despite significant challenges, Qatar embarked on its path in the gas sector with the first gas shipment exported from Ras Laffan Port in late 1997. He said that Qatar now possesses the world's largest gas field spanning 110 square kilometers. He emphasized that Qatar has become the largest exporter of helium and compressed natural gas in the w orld today, pointing out the construction of the world's largest condensate refinery. The country also owns the world's largest gas carrier company, Nakilat, underscoring that Qatar has become a formidable player in this industry that is difficult to surpass. His Excellency highlighted that the 45-year journey was not easy but the result of continuous effort, diligence, and dedication of a complete team of nationals who contributed to this success. During his discussion, he touched on his upbringing and childhood memories in the Bidaa area, moving from there to the Al Sadd area, his education, and graduation, leading to his joining the Ministry of Finance and Petroleum as head of the Public Relations Department in the early seventies. He then became Director of the International Relations Department before becoming the Minister's Office Director in 1989 and subsequently moving to work as Director of the Minister of Interior's Office. Source: Qatar News Agency