Proposal for a radiation safety directive for workers is being requested from the Commission to address health risks.

In recent months, Chancellor Olaf Scholz has been actively seeking long-term LNG supply contracts to secure Germany's energy needs, particularly following the shutdown of a key pipeline and the looming winter season.

One of the key players in these negotiations has been RWE, a German energy company, with whom Scholz has been in discussions. However, after a meeting with Qatar, Scholz issued a statement without mentioning any agreements on gas supplies, leaving the outcome unclear.

Germany and Qatar have been in talks for LNG supplies for several months, but it seems that the hopes of Scholz and Habeck for quick and extensive deliveries from Qatar may have been pipe dreams. Qatar's energy minister has confirmed that talks with RWE and Uniper SE are ongoing regarding long-term LNG contracts, but has also made it clear that Qatar has clear ideas about gas prices and prefers long-term contracts.

In a positive development, Scholz secured a delivery of LNG from the United Arab Emirates. ADNOC agreed with fuel trader Wilhelm Hoyer GmbH & Co. KG to supply up to 250,000 tons of diesel per month in 2023. The agreement provides for the LNG to be delivered to the floating RWE terminal in Brunsbüttel near Hamburg as early as late December.

Additionally, a non-binding agreement for further supplies was made, and ADNOC also signed a letter of intent for further supplies next year. The shipment of 137,000 cubic meters will be delivered by early 2023 to German energy provider RWE AG.

Scholz's trip to Qatar was not without disappointment, as the chancellor was unable to secure flexible, cheap, or short-term gas supplies. Germany is hesitant to sign long-term contracts at record LNG prices, a stance echoed by Total's CEO's recent warning.

Despite these challenges, Scholz remains committed to securing additional gas supplies and has stated that efforts must be made to progress the coalition for liquefied natural gas worldwide to meet high demand. Scholz also visited Saudi Arabia to discuss future cooperation and hydrogen imports, and Masdar, based in Abu Dhabi, will continue exploring wind energy opportunities in Northern Europe and the German Baltic Sea region.

As the winter season approaches, securing additional gas supplies is crucial for Germany to avoid power outages, rationing, and a potential recession. Qatar, as a major gas producer, is the big winner of the gas crisis, as it can choose its buyers and prices. Scholz must continue his negotiations with caution, ensuring that Germany secures the supplies it needs while also protecting its economic interests.