Qatar’s Opec exit a sign of rising intra-Gulf tensions

The Gulf state’s departure will not damage Opec’s operations, but will cement intra-Gulf divisions

On the global energy stage, Qatar is a natural gas mega-performer, but plays only a small part in oil production. Its approximately 600,000 b/d of output represents no more than 2pc of total Opec production. Qatar appears to recognise that Opec's role has diminished over the past two years, with the initiative on global oil price strategy being dictated by two giant producers: Saudi Arabia and Russia. Even though Russia is not part of Opec, its voice is one that the organisation can no longer ignore. Saudi Energy Minister Khalid al-Falih said in October that cooperation with Russia would intensify in the months ahead, allowing the two states to "establish the framework of long-term coordinat