ASTANA. February 5. KAZINFORM /Aliya Keldesheva/ Crown Prince of Norway Haakon Magnus and Kazakh Minister of Industry and Trade Asset Issekeshev have delivered their welcoming speeches at the Kazakh-Norwegian business forum, entitled "Interaction between Kazakhstan and Norway in the Energy Sector" today in Astana.

In his welcoming speech the Prince emphasized the importance of enhancement of cooperation between Kazakhstan and Norway in energy sector. He pointed out the success of Kazakhstan in political, economic and social development and noted that the capital of Kazakhstan, Astana city is the reflection of leadership and significant growth of Kazakhstan in the region.

As earlier reported, one focus point in the seminar, of importance for both countries, is the development of a competitive local industrial base to serve the oil and gas sector and create benefits for each country.

Kazakhstan is in the middle of its efforts to expand national capacity in the petroleum sector. Norway is ready to share its experience with Kazakhstan. Increased partnership between Norwegian and Kazakhstan companies is one way of creating more local content. Training the workforce is another.