The cooperation between the two parties continues.

Recently, among other things, KFU experts held training sessions for Cupet employees in 2015, and 17 employees of the Cuban company enrolled in master courses at the University in 2016.

Another addition to the cooperation history was made on June 26th – 29th, when Vice-Rector, Director of the Institute of Geology and Petroleum Technologies Danis Nurgaliev and Deputy Director of the IGPT Ildus Chukmarov visited Cuba on Cupet’s invitation.

The trip comprised visits to oilfields, labs, the company's information center, R&D divisions, and the Ministry of Education of Cuba.

The first day was devoted to the Russian guests’ familiarization with Cupet’s structure and management. Cupet Exploration Chief Osvaldo Lopez Corso talked about surveying activities.

Dr. Nurgaliev presented his report on SAU EcoOil by saying, in particular, «EcoOil's R&D is aimed at viscous oils and can be applied in Cuba. Our recent TheOR-2017 conference was dedicated to exactly that». Cuban colleagues expressed their wish to collaborate in this area.

Dr. Chukmarov then talked in detail about KFU's education programs in petroleum industry. Cupet Personnel Manager Tania Perez Delgado is now at work preparing new package deals for the company’s employees to be instructed at KFU.

One of the main points on the itinerary was a visit to CEINPET, an R&D center for viscous oils. Center Manager Amilcar Ugarro’s meeting with Kazanites helped outline the prospective cooperation subjects. Vice-Rector Nurgaliev suggested utilizing steam-assisted gravity drainage and in-situ combustion. CEINPET Information Center left a lasting impression with the guests. Cupet’s leading geologists and geophysicists gathered to share their thoughts with KFU delegates, and the meeting gradually turned into a late night brainstorming sessions.  

The visitors then discussed a prospective agreement with Cupet General Director Juan Torres Naranjo. Groups of master students and advanced training students will arrive to Kazan in 2018, as was confirmed by both sides and respective government agencies.

Boca de Jaruco and Varadero oilfields were also inspected. Zarubezhneft has already started using SAGD at Cuban deposits. This Russian company plans to test KFU-made catalysts there.