Rocco DeTomo, President of the Society of Exploration Geophysicists (SEG), emphasized the significant potential of Uzbekistan's mining and geological sector and discussed prospects for its further development.
During an interview, he noted the dynamic development of the country's mining and metallurgical complex, its substantial mineral resource potential, and the need to implement modern technologies in geological research and data management.
Rocco DeTomo visited Uzbekistan and Tashkent for the first time. He stated that during his professional career, he has visited over one hundred countries, and his initial impressions of Uzbekistan were positive. He said: 'It is a wonderful country with a wonderful people, so the impressions are very good.'
Speaking about the international conference GEOMIN 2026, which will be held in Tashkent, the SEG president highlighted the importance of international knowledge exchange and cooperation between geological services and scientists.
In his opinion, the participation of representatives from geological services from different countries created an opportunity for open discussion on ways of mutual support and joint sector development. DeTomo noted: 'It was very pleasant to see how people openly exchanged views on how to help each other, how to build a more developed industry for the whole world and for Uzbekistan, and how the country can effectively and socially responsibly utilize its rich mineral resources.'
He also highly praised the growth rate of Uzbekistan's mining and metallurgical complex. DeTomo commented: 'The metallurgical complex is strong and continues to develop in areas defined by the ministry and the President. Development is indeed moving very fast.'
Nevertheless, the specialist particularly stressed the need to pay close attention to the quality of geological data amidst the rapid development of the sector. According to him, proper collection and systematization of information are critically important for the subsequent application of new methods, such as machine learning and modern measurement techniques. DeTomo added: 'However, with such rapid growth, it is important to pay special attention to the proper collection and systematization of data. This will allow the utilization of future technologies, machine learning, and new measurement methods.'
The SEG president emphasized that the organization he represents unites over 14,000 scientists worldwide specializing in Earth's natural resources. He concluded: 'We see huge potential here, but we need to work and cooperate together. That is what we are doing here.'