The International Gas Union (IGU) selected Washington, DC as the host city of the 27th World Gas Conference (WGC2018) in June 2018.
In an Olympic-style vote with Qatar and the Republic of Korea as formidable competition, the American Gas Association (AGA) won the support of the IGU membership, representing some 78 countries worldwide.
Securing the convention in the District is a major boost towards booking more international business in the nation’s capital.
Destination DC and Events DC have been focused on the international meetings and convention market and supported AGA in its efforts to bring the conference to DC.
“As one of the most international cities in the world, it is fitting that Washington, DC should be chosen to bring together the world’s energy leaders,” said Elliott Ferguson, president and CEO of Destination DC.
“Being named as host city for the 2018 World Gas Conference is a great step towards booking the kind of international meetings business that Washington, DC can support. Our city has all the tools to make a successful international event from our great meeting facilities and the diversity of our residents to some of the most unique hotels, restaurants and attractions found anywhere in the world.”
The USA also won the Presidency of the IGU for three years from 2015-2018, which will culminate in hosting the 27th World Gas Conference in Washington, D.C. Destination DC and Events DC supported AGA’s efforts to win the 2018 bid by providing expertise throughout the bidding process including obtaining Federal and local government support, providing marketing and promotional materials, designing a customized bid book, conducting site visits and creating a customized video for the bid.
“Washington, DC represents the intersection of global commerce and policy for international meetings, providing WGC2018 attendees with immediate access to influential decision makers in the heart of a world capital,” said Gregory A. O’Dell, Events DC president and chief executive officer.
“The District of Columbia has the infrastructure, accessibility and amenities to play host to key world leaders in any industry, and we are ready to welcome the World Gas Conference to our city.”
The IGU holds the WGC once every three years. It is the world’s premier event for the natural gas industry. More than 4,000 individuals from around the globe are expected to attend, to discuss a wide range of energy topics, including gas supply, demand, production, storage, environmental issues and financial and regulatory concerns.
As part of the WGC, an extensive exhibition is held to showcase the latest technologies and developments in the gas industry.
