Astana to Host World Petroleum Congress in 2028
Astana, The Gulf Observer: Astana is set to host the World Petroleum Congress for the first time in 2028, following the signing of a memorandum between the KAZENERGY Association and the World Petroleum Council leadership in London. The congress aims to tackle complex issues in the international energy market and propose innovative solutions, according to a report by media.
Kazakhstan’s bid to host the congress, submitted by KAZENERGY, received unanimous support from the council member countries. The event is expected to draw high-ranking guests from around the globe to Astana to discuss the future of the energy sector. Magzum Mirzagaliev, Chairman of the KAZENERGY Association, expressed optimism about the congress’s impact, stating, “The congress will attract new technologies and investments to Kazakhstan, enhancing its reputation as an energy powerhouse.”
Significantly, no budget funds will be allocated for the event; expenses will be covered by the World Petroleum Council and participating countries. Intensive preparations are underway, including plans to open an oil museum in Atyrau after the congress.
Pedro Miras, President of the World Petroleum Council, highlighted the organization’s long history since its founding in London in 1933. With 57 member countries, the council represents 95% of global oil and gas production. Kazakhstan has been a member since 2008 and is expected to play a pivotal role in the upcoming congress.
Previous World Petroleum Congresses were held in the United States, Türkiye, and Canada, with Saudi Arabia set to host in 2026 before passing the torch to Astana. Yevgeny Glotov, Deputy Mayor of Astana, emphasized the event’s potential to boost event and business tourism, as well as attract investors to the city and the country.
Kazakhstan, a leading exporter of oil and gas, is also committed to transitioning to a green economy, aiming for carbon neutrality by 2060. As such, climate change will be a key topic at the congress.
The 2028 World Petroleum Congress in Astana promises to be a landmark event, fostering global dialogue on energy and sustainability while reinforcing Kazakhstan’s standing in the international energy community.
