"Gastech 2008 is not merely a venue for natural-gas conferences and exhibitions. It's also an opportunity to push Thailand's natural-gas industry at the international level and demonstrate a readiness to join the world."

So said Energy Minister Poonpirom Liptapanlop, who is confident that Gastech 2008 will show the world that Thailand is ready to be the regional leader in natural-gas exploration, production, supply and trade.

The 23rd Gastech will be hosted by PTT Group and staged from Monday to Thursday at the Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Centre.

Today, the Thai natural-gas industry, in which PTT is prominent through exploration and development, demonstrates outstanding potential in the region, the minister said.

"On all fronts, there is big room for Thailand to be the regional leader. We're ready in all respects. On infrastructure, we have the natural-gas pipelines. Our energy management is efficient. We also boast a geographical advantage, being surrounded by natural-gas supplying countries, which are also one of the world's largest group of natural-gas users. We can become the energy hub."

Poonpirom believes that achieving regional leadership is significant to the economy, as this would lead to development and investment in natural gas and related industries. This could pave the way for cooperation and investment in the energy business and provide long-term energy security.

Hosting Gastech 2008 will enhance Thailand's access to natural-gas supply sources, traders and explorers.

Gastech 2008 will be the main forum to highlight the strengths of PTT and Thailand, with more than 1,800 participants from 50 countries including ministers and top executives of multinational oil companies.

The event will demonstrate to industry leaders Thailand's readiness to step into the world arena. The visitors will also strengthen the tourism industry, Poonpirom said.