ASTANA — The Somali Ambassador to Kazakhstan, Fathudin Ali Mohamed, has engaged in high-level strategic discussions in Astana with top Kazakh energy officials to explore potential collaboration in oil and gas exploration and development.
The diplomatic talks involved detailed meetings with Askhat Khassenov, Chairman of the KazMunayGas Board of Management, and Sanzhar Zharkeshov, Kazakhstan’s Deputy Minister of Energy. This engagement builds upon the recent establishment of formal diplomatic relations between the two nations, marking a significant step in economic cooperation.
Focus on Upstream Exploration
Discussions centered primarily on potential energy sector cooperation, with a specific focus on upstream activities. Both sides demonstrated a strong mutual interest in establishing a beneficial, long-term partnership.
Kazakh representatives emphasized their robust technical expertise and decades of extensive experience in hydrocarbon exploration and development. They expressed a strong willingness for international collaboration, particularly in emerging energy markets like the Horn of Africa.
In response, Ambassador Fathudin outlined Somalia’s highly promising onshore and offshore oil and gas prospects. He highlighted the Federal Government’s dedication to responsible resource management, the implementation of transparent legal and regulatory frameworks, and its ongoing strategy of forming partnerships with experienced international energy firms.
Advanced Technologies and Knowledge Sharing
Both parties stressed the critical significance of comprehensive geological exploration as a foundation for enduring cooperation. This includes utilizing advanced technologies such as 3D seismic data acquisition, sophisticated data analysis, and precise subsurface modeling.
Furthermore, the officials recognized the vital importance of knowledge sharing, technical capacity development, and regulatory collaboration to advance sustainable energy growth in Somalia.
The gatherings concluded with a joint commitment to enhance dialogue and pursue practical, actionable pathways for oil and gas cooperation, representing a highly positive stride toward fortifying economic and energy ties between Somalia and Kazakhstan.
