Frank Pearl To Lead ACP, Colombia’s Largest Petroleum Industry Association

On Monday, the Colombian Petroleum Association or ACP, the country’s largest oil and gas industry association, announced that Frank Pearl would be the organization’s new president, elected by the board of directors.

Pearl was the country’s Environment Minister in 2011 where he led plans for the country to adapt to climate change, and was also High Commissioner for Peace, where he negotiated with guerilla groups ELN and FARC.

“I appreciate the confidence of the companies affiliated with the ACP and the hydrocarbon industry; I arrive with all the energy to lead this sector that is so important for the country, with the aim of building bridges for the joint construction of an energy policy for the benefit of all Colombian citizens and regions, since this industry has an enormous responsibility with the future generations and is therefore committed to sustainable development,” Pearl said.

Orlando Cabrales Segovia, president of the Board of Directors of the ACP, said: “Frank assumes the position at a crucial moment for the industry and the country, in which the efficient management of natural resources and innovation in the sector are essential for national energy security, economic diversification, well-being and a better quality of life for Colombians.”

“We must continue to think about growth, yes, this must be green growth focused on sustainable development, to which the human talent of the hydrocarbons industry is committed, men and women who innovate daily to ensure socially and environmentally responsible operations,” said Pearl in his first statement as the new President of the ACP.

Pearls appointment comes as the last president, Francisco José “Pacho” Lloreda retired after nine years leading the organization.

“On behalf of the ACP Board of Directors, we regret Dr. Lloreda’s decision not to continue leading the gremio (trade association). In these nine years, he was a firm defender of the industry and national interests, raising the name of the Colombian Association of Oil and Gas, and the hydrocarbon industry. We express our sincere feeling of gratitude and admiration, wishing him the best in his future plans,” said Cabrales.