On behalf of the Society of Petroleum Engineers and the professional oil and gas community of the Caspian region, I would like to welcome you to the third edition of SPE's Annual Caspian Technical Conference and Exhibition taking place on 1-3 November in Astana, Kazakhstan.

Following a very successful event in Baku, this year is full of challenges and changes and we expect more professional engagement with a focus on the current market conditions facing the oil and gas industry, both globally and on a local level. The conference will provide a platform for local, regional and international experts to discuss topics relevant to maintaining and boosting technological advancements and developments in the region.

The programme will strike a balance between topical panel sessions and technical sessions involving debate and research-based presentations with the intention of exchanging knowledge, best practices, and experience.

I look forward to welcoming you to Astana in November 2016.