Tribune News Network
doha
QatarEnergy marked a significant milestone in its ambitious shipbuilding programme with the inauguration of its first conventional-size LNG vessel, the “Rex Tillerson.”
Named after former ExxonMobil Chairman and CEO Rex Tillerson, the vessel pays tribute to his lifetime achievements and profound impact on the global energy sector. This landmark event highlights QatarEnergy’s ongoing commitment to expanding its LNG fleet and reinforcing its position as a leading exporter of liquefied natural gas.
The traditional naming ceremony took place at the Hudong-Zhonghua Shipyard in Shanghai, China, one of the world’s most renowned shipyards for LNG carriers.
The event was attended by Minister of State for Energy Affairs and QatarEnergy President and CEO HE Saad Sherida Al Kaabi, who was joined by several high-profile dignitaries, including QatarEnergy LNG CEO Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa Al Thani, Jia Haiying, member of the Party Leadership Group and chief financial officer of China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC), Chen Jianliang, chairman of Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding, Takeshi Hashimoto, president and CEO of Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, and Zhu Bixin, president of China COSCO SHIPPING Corporation Limited, along with senior executives from QatarEnergy andQatarEnergy LNG.
In his remarks at the ceremony, Al Kaabi underscored the significance of naming the vessel after Rex Tillerson, highlighting the enduring friendship and successful partnership between Qatar and ExxonMobil under Tillerson’s leadership.
“Mr Tillerson’s legacy will always be remembered in Qatar and around the world, particularly for his wisdom, warmth, and sincerity, which drove one of the oldest Qatari relationships with international oil companies towards greater prosperity,” said Al Kaabi.
He emphasised that the “Rex Tillerson” stands as a testament to Tillerson’s long-lasting influence on the energy sector and his pivotal role in strengthening the bonds between Qatar and the global energy community.
The minister also expressed his best wishes for the new vessel, saying, “Fair Winds and Following Seas,” as it embarks on its mission to deliver Qatari-produced LNG to various receiving terminals worldwide. He added, “This event embodies our commitment to meet the world’s growing need for cleaner energy and to be part of the global economic development for decades to come. As the first ship in our new LNG fleet, the Rex Tillerson will undoubtedly play a significant role as she carries Qatari-produced LNG to many receiving terminals across the globe.”
Rex Tillerson, reflecting on his long career with ExxonMobil, expressed deep gratitude and pride for having the vessel named in his honour. He said, “During my almost 42-year career with ExxonMobil Corporation, one of the highlights was working with Qatar to develop its LNG trade. Under the wise leadership of His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, and the continuing wise leadership of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Qatar has become the largest exporter of liquefied natural gas to the world.” Tillerson further added, “I am deeply honored to have this magnificent ship carry my name. I hope it will have many years of safe service delivering energy the world over.”
Alongside the inauguration of the “Rex Tillerson,” QatarEnergy also celebrated the naming of a second vessel, “Umm Ghuwailina.” Both ships are part of a series of 12 conventional-size LNG carriers contracted with Hudong-Zhonghua Shipyard.
These vessels are equipped with state-of-the-art maritime technology, ensuring optimal operational efficiency and compliance with the most stringent environmental regulations. This highlights QatarEnergy’s commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship as it continues to expand its fleet to meet the growing global demand for cleaner energy.
The vessels are fitted with advanced dual-fuel engines, generators, and boilers that significantly reduce both fuel consumption and emissions, aligning with the industry’s highest safety, technical, and environmental standards. This technological sophistication ensures that the ships not only operate efficiently but also contribute to QatarEnergy’s broader goal of minimizing environmental impact in its global operations.
Al Kaabi expressed his gratitude to Hudong-Zhonghua Shipyard for their world-class craftsmanship and their long-standing partnership with QatarEnergy. He also acknowledged the vessel’s owners, managers, and captains for their trust and confidence as the “Rex Tillerson” and “Umm Ghuwailina” prepare to set sail ahead of their contracted delivery schedules.
The launch of these vessels signifies QatarEnergy’s proactive approach to enhancing its LNG supply chain capabilities, further solidifying its position as a key player in the global LNG market. With these vessels under long-term charter by QatarEnergy Trading (QET), they are poised to play a crucial role in delivering LNG to markets worldwide, reinforcing QatarEnergy’s commitment to supporting global energy needs with cleaner and more sustainable solutions.
The successful naming and inauguration of the “Rex Tillerson” and “Umm Ghuwailina” represent a landmark achievement in QatarEnergy’s shipbuilding programme, reflecting the company’s strategic vision to drive innovation and sustainability in the energy sector while honoring the legacy of those who have significantly shaped its path.
