Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- pragmatic /prag-MAT-ik/
[adjective] – solving problems in a sensible way that suits the conditions that really exist, rather than following fixed theories or ideas
The manager took a pragmatic approach to cut costs without losing employees. - strategic /struh-TEE-jik/
[adjective] – helping to achieve a plan, for example in business or politics
The team made a strategic plan to reach new international markets. - ambitious /am-BISH-uhs/
[adjective] – having a strong wish to be successful, powerful, or rich
The engineer started an ambitious project to design a new electric car. - equilibrium /ee-kwuh-LIB-ree-uhm/
[noun] – a state of balance, especially between opposing forces or influences
The country tried to keep equilibrium between economic growth and environmental care. - credibility /kred-uh-BIL-i-tee/
[noun] – the quality of being trusted and believed in
The journalist worked hard to build her credibility with accurate reporting.
Article Reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
Abu Dhabi hosted a major global oil conference on Monday, following the decision of OPEC+ to postpone its planned production increase for the first quarter of 2026. The oil alliance, which includes both OPEC members and producers led by Russia, announced the move after observing a potential oversupply in the market. The decision came shortly after new sanctions from the United States and the United Kingdom targeted Russian energy companies such as Rosneft and Lukoil. Despite the sanctions, Lukoil remained a visible sponsor at the Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (ADIPEC), a major industry event. Benchmark Brent crude traded at around $65 per barrel, a significant drop from more than $115 in 2022. The decline reflected market uncertainty influenced by both sanctions and production levels.
Energy experts described the decision as a pragmatic and strategic response to complex geopolitical pressures. Jorge León from Rystad Energy explained that the group aimed to stabilize prices and observe the market before proceeding with further changes. The summit also featured U.S. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, who promoted increased domestic output under the National Energy Dominance Council. Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates continued its ambitious plan to raise oil production capacity to 5 million barrels per day while investing in renewable energy projects. Analysts believe the decision demonstrates OPEC+’s effort to maintain equilibrium in an unpredictable market and sustain credibility as a global energy regulator. However, balancing energy expansion with climate goals remained a formidable challenge for producing nations.
Energy experts described the decision as a pragmatic and strategic response to complex geopolitical pressures. Jorge León from Rystad Energy explained that the group aimed to stabilize prices and observe the market before proceeding with further changes. The summit also featured U.S. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, who promoted increased domestic output under the National Energy Dominance Council. Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates continued its ambitious plan to raise oil production capacity to 5 million barrels per day while investing in renewable energy projects. Analysts believe the decision demonstrates OPEC+’s effort to maintain equilibrium in an unpredictable market and sustain credibility as a global energy regulator. However, balancing energy expansion with climate goals remained a formidable challenge for producing nations.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever attended a major event or conference before? If so, what was it about? If not, would you like to?
- Have you seen or read the news about energy prices changing? If so, what did you think? If not, do you think it affects people’s lives?
- Do you agree that OPEC+ made a wise and strategic decision to wait before increasing production?
- Why is maintaining credibility important for international organizations like OPEC+?
- How can countries maintain equilibrium between energy development and environmental protection?
Summarization:
Please summarize the whole article using your own words and expressions. You will have one minute to prepare before you answer.
Describe:
Please explain the definition of each word listed below based on your understanding. You can provide example sentences if needed.
- host
- conference
- oversupply
- industry
- pressure