By Ramiz Mammadov,

The two national companies of Kazachstan and Azerbaijan – KazMunayGas (KMG) and State Oil Company of the Azerbaijan Republic (SOCAR) – have signed several agreements to create a legal and commercial basis for the Trans-Caspian Project, also known as the Trans-Caspian Oil Transportation System (TCOTS). The latest step forward was announced early in June when a pre-qualification round was started for feasibility studies. The TCOTS is important as a major new source of oil supplies in Europe. It has strong backing of the major oil companies, including European companies, operating in the Caspian region and it is backed by the governments of Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan. What is lacking so far, however, is clear support from the EU and the US. This makes it possible for Russia and Iran to undermine the project. High time for Brussels to take action.

Discussions links climate, health and water issues

Washington D.C. Over 90 Leaders from business, academia, science and diplomats from Sweden, Bangladesh, Malaysia and Japan came together on September 23d at the National Press Club to pay tribute to Dr. Rita Colwell, this year’s winner of the Stockholm Water Prize. The award recognized Dr. Colwell for her groundbreaking work in preventing the ravages of cholera and other waterborne diseases.