On 28 May 2024, a round table on geothermal energy was held in Tashkent with the Ministry of Economy and Finance, to study geothermal opportunities and develop strategic plans for introducing it, UzDaily reported on 29 May.
Taking part were Deputy Minister of Economy and Finance Samandar Sadullaev, ministry officials Zafar Astanov and Akmal Abdunazarov, and Nurbek Pulatov of the geology ministry. The lender’s team included Neil McKain (spelt McCain by UzDaily), Ilhem Salamon, Tariq Shahovich, Madina Nurmatova, who manages projects in Uzbekistan and Tajikistan including geothermal development, and adviser Sanjeev Kumar, together with Elena Pavlenko, president of DiXi Group.
Salamon and Kumar presented the benefits of geothermal energy for the country. An interactive session discussed potential sites for geothermal projects and the roles of central and local authorities. Participants also exchanged views on policy and regulation, financing and investment, and jobs. The sides agreed to expand cooperation and hold further consultations on planned projects.
UzDaily names the partner as the International Monetary Fund. Other reports, such as The Times of Central Asia, describe Neil McKain as the IFC’s Regional Manager for Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan.
