From Black Gold to Frozen Gas: How Qatar Became an Energy Superpower

Includes bibliographical references and index.

"Eighty years after oil was first discovered in Qatar, a small nation often ignored in favor of its richer and larger Gulf neighbors, it is now an energy behemoth exporting vast amounts of liquefied natural gas, condensates, refined products, petrochemicals, and fertilizers. The country also produces steel, iron, and aluminum and is the second-largest supplier of helium in the world. It has expanded its footprint abroad, acquiring oil and gas assets in the Middle East, Africa, the Mediterranean, and Latin America. Drawing on history, political analysis, and experience in the energy sector dating back to the 1970s, Michael Tusiani and Anne-Marie Johnson explore the reasons for Qatar's development into a global energy power. Sitting on top of one of the world's largest gas reserves was no doubt luck, but the authors argue that Qatar knew how to leverage this largesse to its best advantage. By focusing on creating the nation's own identity in the region, Qatar's leaders made what many considered to be unconventional and controversial political decisions, often setting the nation at odds with major players on the energy market. Nevertheless, these decisions paid off, placing the country in a strong position as a major global energy player despite declining oil reserves. Part historical analysis, part in-the-room reportage, this book presents an authoritative account of the development of the modern Qatari energy kingdom"-- Provided by publisher.