YEREVAN, JANUARY 20, ARMENPRESS. More than 100 countries are going to take part in “Astana EXPO-2017” world exhibition in Astana which will be held from June 10 to September 10.

Countries participating in the exhibition entitled “Future energy” will present the developments in the energy sector.

“Armenpress” talked with General Commissioner for “Astana EXPO-2017” Rapil Zhoshybayev over this important economic event.

-Mr. Zhoshybayev, in what stage are the preparation works of the “Astana EXPO-2017”. What has been so far?

-As you know, the exhibition will be held from June 10 to September 10, 2017. The preparation works are going according to the proposed schedule. All major construction works are completed. At this moment more than 100 countries and 18 international organizations confirmed their participation in the EXPO. Already more than 10 countries, China, Japan, Turkey, several European countries have already launched their preparation works in the provided pavilions.

-We know that the exhibition is entitled “Future energy”. What is the reason of the selection of this topic?

-This topic has been selected by our President. This is a contemporary topic for many countries of the world. The entire world is wondering what to expect in the energy sector. All understand that one day all traditional sources of energy are going to be consumed, the talk is about oil, gas. Thus, this is among the priority issues, what new technologies we can apply for using new sources of energy. This topic is interesting for the international community. “Future energy” will be held in three main directions: reduction of emissions, energy for all, in other words, energy must be available for everyone, and the third is energy efficiency.

-What will, in particular, the participating countries present? Can you provide some details?

-Firstly, the countries are going to present their strong sides in the field of alternative energy use. They will present their opportunities, projects. In particular, devices on receiving solar energy, electric buses, the latest generation of nuclear power plants, hydropower plants projects will be presented. As in Kazakhstan, in Armenia as well there are many mountains, and it is beneficial to construct hydropower plants in order to make the power affordable to remote villages. We plan to increase alternative energy volumes in upcoming years.

-What will be the emphasis of this exhibition, how it will be different from the previous ones? We know that international exhibition was held in China, Japan, Italy and other countries.

-This country, which received a right to hold this exhibition, of course, will try to show its strong sides. For instance, Milan was showing its strong sides in the food industry sector, Shanghai in the communication field and etc. We have selected a topic familiar to us. You know that Kazakhstan is rich in natural energy resources, we have gas, oil, coal, uranium, but we understand that all are interested in the climate protection. By utilizing the scientific potential we seek to diversify the energy resources. Moreover, there will be a symbolic bowl in the center of this exhibition city, which will be comprised of 8 floors. There will be an exhibition in each floor on energy topic. This later is going to be the museum of “Future energy”. As for the remaining structure, there is already a decision to make it international finance center in future.

-Except the EXPO, what other events are scheduled?

-A number of events will be held except the EXPO. In particular, every participating state must have its own national day. They must select one day to present their countries. Now we are discussing with Armenia the issue of clarifying the day of its national day. High-ranking officials are expected to take part. During that time each country will present its economic programs, there will be cultural events as well. This year is a jubilee year for our capital, our city leadership invite various Mayors to take part in the ceremonies. A women’s forum will also be held. Meetings of energy Ministers, tourism sector representatives are scheduled. We think many interesting events will be held, we expect to have more than 5 million visitors.

-What works have been carried out in terms of infrastructure development?

-Currently the city leadership is working on this path every day. New terminal is being built in the airport. The works of railway station are at the completion stage. There are going to be more than 20 hotels, as well as a hostel for volunteers is being built. 4.000 volunteers will arrive.

-In summary, what opportunities does the exhibition provide to the participants? What expectations does Kazakhstan have as an organizer country?

-Firstly, many companies are taking part in the EXPO, therefore, it is a good opportunity for signing new contracts, new initiatives. Each company can present its own opportunities, propose technological solutions. As for countries, it is a good opportunity to intensify the bilateral ties. As for Kazakhstan, this exhibition is firstly important in terms of the development of various branches of the economy, developing the bilateral relations with various countries.

According to Armenian Prime Minister’s December 13, 2016 decision, Minister of Economic Development and Investments Suren Karayan was appointed Armenia’s General Commissioner for the EXPO.

Suren Karayan and General Commissioner for “Astana EXPO-2017” Rapil Zhoshybayev on January 19 signed an agreement on approval of Armenia’s participation in the EXPO.

Interview by Anna Gziryan