Kazakhstan and Canada are interested in the implementation of joint energy projects. Business representatives from the Canadian province of Alberta, one of the richest and most economically developed provinces in the country, have arrived in Astana. Notably, the province produces oil, gas and coal. During the meeting, the parties also discussed potential partnerships in the field of renewable energy. Alberta has much to offer in this area, as the region has solar, water and wind energy reserves and it is an undisputed leader in the growth of green generation in Canada.
«There are a lot of similarities between Alberta and Kazakhstan: the environment, the climate. So we definitely believe that there is a huge potential for Kazakhstan to grow its energy sector, be more sustainable, using technologies that are from Alberta. When you look at the energy sector in Canada, there is a lot of focus on sustainability. Alberta is really leading a lot of these technologies when it comes to Canada, and I think, there is a lot of potential for these technologies to be also used in Kazakhstan,» noted Aarij Bashir, Director for North Asia, Alberta Ministry of Jobs, Economy and Trade, Canada.
It is still early to discuss the specific implementation of joint projects in renewable energy. The parties need to hold a series of consultative meetings and negotiations first. The important thing is that the countries are focused on future close cooperation in this area. Kazakhstan has sufficient natural resources and qualified personnel.
«There are many industry events ahead. At the upcoming events, we plan to consider contracts for attracting investments. If there are good ideas and initiatives, I think the projects will receive support,» said Kazakh Vice Minister of Energy Yerlan Akkenzhenov.
«Kazakhstan
has excellent human resources potential, with specialists trained at the best
higher educational institutions in the world. For example, around 300 Kazakh
students have graduated from Canadian institutions. I think all of this is very
attractive to investors for the joint implementation of projects,» noted Zhanibek Katrenov, Chairman of the Bolashak
Association Council.
