On June 25, 2026, Qatar, the United States, Nigeria, and Algeria signed a joint open letter to the European Union regarding its methane regulation. The letter, addressed to EU officials, calls for alignment with international methane reduction standards.
The signatories, representing major natural gas producers, emphasize the need for a balanced approach that supports energy security while addressing methane emissions. The EU's Methane Regulation, adopted in 2024, imposes strict monitoring and reporting requirements on imported fossil fuels.
According to verified reports, the letter urges the EU to recognize existing methane reduction efforts in producer countries and to avoid unilateral measures that could disrupt global energy markets. The move reflects ongoing tensions between energy exporters and the EU's climate policies.
This development follows earlier diplomatic exchanges, including a 2025 letter from US lawmakers to the EU on similar concerns. The current letter aims to foster dialogue and ensure that methane regulations are effective and equitable.