IPTC Set for Doha, Qatar

Joint Technology Meeting Launched

Editor's note: This proposal comes from the presidents of four groups. They are AAPG's Patrick J.F. Gratton, 2004-05; EAGE's Olivier Dubrule, 2004-05; SEG's Peter Duncan, 2003-04; and SPE's Kate Baker, 2004.

During 2003, our societies -- the American Association of Petroleum Geologists, the European Association of Geoscientists & Engineers, the Society of Exploration Geophysicists and the Society of Petroleum Engineers -- held extensive discussions about working together to organize a new oil and gas conference and exhibition.

On behalf of our organizations, we are now pleased to announce the result of these discussions: the International Petroleum Technology Conference (IPTC). This biennial event will not only serve our traditional E&P sectors but also will cover midstream activities and have a significant focus on gas.

The first IPTC will be held Nov. 21-23, 2005, in Doha, Qatar, in the region of one of the world's most extensive gas reserves.

Our societies will combine our individual technical expertise in this cooperative effort to present what we believe will be the most significant and comprehensive conference on gas and oil in the Eastern Hemisphere.

We expect attendees to represent a variety of disciplines, including petroleum engineers, geologists, geophysicists and others. We plan to draw engineering professionals and industry decision-makers from across the globe -- the Middle East, Europe, Africa, the former Soviet Union, Asia Pacific and the Americas.

The unique value IPTC brings to the industry is derived from a strong technical program and technology exhibition. This conference also will provide a focused setting for key players to engage with in-region gas and oil providers, regional energy ministers and international executives to initiate relationships and new business opportunities.

The contacts and relationships established at this conference could help key industry players open new markets and channels extending far into the future.

Over the years, our members and the industry in general have benefited from our various cooperative efforts. This is the first time, however, that AAPG, EAGE, SEG and SPE have joined in a single initiative, and one of such breadth and scope. We are excited and pleased to work together on this unique international event for our industry.

Join us at the International Petroleum Technology Conference in Doha, Qatar, in 2005.