Uzbekistan’s Energy Minister Jurabek Mirzamakhmudov met with executives of U.S.-based oilfield services company SLB on May 21 to discuss expanding cooperation in energy digitalization, drilling technologies and hydrocarbon development.
The meeting was attended by SLB President for Asia Pacific Shady Shahdy, Central Asia Managing Director Andrey Boykov and representatives from both sides.
According to the Energy Ministry, discussions focused on current and future cooperation in geological exploration, drilling, field modeling, digital technologies and the development of complex hydrocarbon reserves.
Particular attention was given to joint projects aimed at improving digital databases, increasing efficiency in field development and creating both short-term and long-term hydrocarbon production strategies.
The sides also discussed introducing modern technologies and artificial intelligence solutions into drilling and field development processes.
At the end of the meeting, the parties agreed to organize a joint practical seminar in early June focused on digitalization, advanced technologies and AI applications in the energy sector.
The ministry said both sides also agreed to continue close cooperation and information exchange.
Another major topic of the talks was workforce development and specialist training. According to the official statement, SLB shared its experience implementing educational programs in cooperation with specialized universities and technical institutions.
The sides discussed improving professional qualifications, preparing specialists for the energy sector and supporting development of the local labor market.
SLB, formerly known as Schlumberger, is one of the world’s largest oilfield services companies. Founded in 1926 and headquartered in Houston, the company operates in more than 120 countries.
The company provides technologies and solutions in geological exploration, drilling, digitalization, reservoir modeling and hydrocarbon production.
Earlier this month, Uzbekistan discussed expanding oil and gas cooperation with Azerbaijan’s SOCAR and energy giant BP, including projects on the Ustyurt Plateau and plans to open a SOCAR representative office in the country.
Uzbekistan has also recently held talks with Saudi Arabia’s ACWA Power on broadening cooperation in renewable energy, infrastructure and digital projects as the country continues efforts to modernize its energy sector and attract international investment.
