The draft Strategy for the SCO
Development of Energy Cooperation until 2030 has been reviewed and approved at
the fourth meeting of the heads of the SCO relevant ministries in Astana. It is
worth noting that the strategic document was developed at the initiative of Kazakh
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. It provides for the establishment of a new
energy system with priorities set for industry expansion, modernization of
traditional energy sources, development of hydrogen energy, as well as
exploring new solutions in energy conservation and improving energy efficiency.
«Advancing a low-carbon future,
achieving carbon neutrality, and phased energy transition are certainly important
points for the development of the energy sector for all SCO countries. We are
interested in advancing this direction in the context of global climate change
issues, based on national priorities to ensure sustainable socio-economic
development and energy security of SCO states. It is paramount to develop
advanced, low-emission technologies, mobilize green financing, and enhance personnel
to promote citizen welfare and sustainable development,» said Almassadam
Satkaliyev, Kazakh Minister of Energy.
For many years, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan,
and the Kyrgyz Republic have been closely cooperating in the field of energy.
The countries have signed trilateral agreements to implement major projects.
Their implementation aims not only to meet the region’s electricity demand but
also to derive mutual benefits, according to Kyrgyz Energy Minister Taalaibek
Ibraev.
«Since the Soviet times, all
Central Asian countries have been involved in an energy ring. This cooperation
continues to this day. Central Asia is keenly interested in accessing the
markets of China, India, Pakistan, and other countries, which I believe will be
achieved in the near future,» Ibraev said.
