Central Asia is witnessing significant developments across various sectors, including energy investments, business support programs, and regional integration initiatives. Countries in the region are strengthening economic ties, attracting foreign investments, and exploring new opportunities for cooperation, such as visa-free travel and green energy projects. These efforts aim to boost economic growth, improve infrastructure, and enhance regional connectivity.
Kazakhstan
Kazakh athlete Yerbol Khamitov makes history in world para biathlon
Yerbol Khamitov achieved a historic victory in para biathlon, becoming the first Kazakh athlete to win a world championship medal in this sport. His remarkable performance highlights Kazakhstan's growing presence in international para sports. Officials and fans celebrate his achievement as a milestone for the country's athletes with disabilities.
Source: zakon.kz
Kazakhstan updates registration rules on social services portal
The registration process on Kazakhstan's social services portal has been updated to improve accessibility and security. The changes aim to simplify the procedure for users while enhancing data protection. Authorities expect the new rules to streamline access to social support services for citizens.
Source: zakon.kz
KMG CEO invites ADNOC to invest in Kazakhstan's oil and gas projects
The head of KazMunayGas has invited the UAE’s ADNOC to invest in Kazakhstan’s oil and gas sector. The proposal aims to strengthen energy cooperation and attract foreign investments into key projects. This initiative aligns with Kazakhstan’s strategy to develop its energy industry through international partnerships.
Source: zakon.kz
Kazakhstan may introduce special SIM cards for children
Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Education has proposed introducing special SIM cards for children to enhance online safety. These SIM cards would include built-in filters to restrict access to certain websites and content. Parents would be required to purchase these SIM cards for their children. The initiative is being discussed with relevant authorities, but no launch date has been announced yet.
Source: tengrinews.kz
Kazakhstan and Saudi Arabia to launch a venture fund for DeepTech startups
Kazakhstan and Saudi Arabia are collaborating to establish a venture fund aimed at supporting deeptech startups. This initiative seeks to boost innovation and strengthen economic ties between the two countries. The fund will focus on emerging technologies and provide financial backing to promising startups in the region.
Source: weproject.media
Kyrgyzstan
Home education to become available in Kyrgyzstan
Kyrgyzstan is set to introduce home education as an official option for students. The initiative aims to provide families with more flexibility in their children's learning process while ensuring access to quality education. The government is working on regulations to implement this system, allowing parents to choose an alternative to traditional schooling.
Source: 24.kg
China proposes to build Aksu-Bedel-Balykchy railway in Kyrgyzstan
China has proposed constructing a new railway line connecting Aksu, Bedel, and Balykchy in Kyrgyzstan. The project aims to enhance trade and economic cooperation between the two countries by improving transportation infrastructure. If implemented, the railway could become a key route for regional connectivity and boost economic development in Kyrgyzstan.
Source: 24.kg
Classic works of Kyrgyzstan will be translated into Azerbaijani
Kyrgyzstan and Azerbaijan have agreed to translate and publish classic Kyrgyz literary works in Azerbaijani. This initiative aims to strengthen cultural ties between the two nations and introduce Azerbaijani readers to Kyrgyz literature. The project will help preserve and promote Kyrgyz heritage while fostering mutual understanding between the countries.
Source: weproject.media
South Korea to provide Kyrgyzstan with a $500 million loan for investment projects
South Korea has agreed to allocate a $500 million loan to Kyrgyzstan to support various investment projects. The funds will be directed toward infrastructure development, economic initiatives, and technological advancements. This financial assistance aims to strengthen bilateral cooperation and boost Kyrgyzstan's economic growth.
Source: 24.kg
Kyrgyzstan introduces QR payment system for fishing permits
Kyrgyzstan has implemented a QR code payment system for purchasing fishing permits. This new digital solution aims to simplify transactions, enhance transparency, and reduce illegal fishing activities. Authorities believe the system will make the permit acquisition process more efficient and accessible for anglers.
Source: 24.kg
Kyrgyz poet receives international literary award in Serbia
A Kyrgyz poet has been honored with an international literary award in Serbia. This recognition highlights the poet's contribution to literature and cultural exchange between the two countries. The award emphasizes the growing appreciation of Kyrgyz literature on the global stage.
Source: 24.kg
Uzbekistan
Paid parking zones to expand in Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan is set to expand paid parking zones in major cities to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion. Authorities plan to introduce more designated parking areas and implement digital payment systems. The initiative aims to enhance urban mobility and optimize parking management.
Source: spot.uz
Technoparks planned in Tashkent and Samarkand regions
Authorities in Uzbekistan plan to establish new technoparks in Tashkent and Samarkand regions to boost innovation and economic growth. These hubs will support high-tech industries, attract investments, and create job opportunities, contributing to the country's technological development.
Source: weproject.media
France and Japan to invest $214 million in uranium mining in Uzbekistan
France's Orano and Japan's Itochu have signed an agreement with Uzbekistan's Navoiuran to develop the South Jangeldy uranium deposit. The project, located in the Tomdi district of Navoi region, is expected to start production by the end of 2025, with an annual output of 500 tons. The deal also includes plans to expand geological exploration for future joint ventures.
Source: spot.uz
Uzbekistan and France sign over 20 agreements and contracts
Uzbekistan and France have signed more than 20 agreements covering agriculture, energy, green economy, and mineral extraction. The deals were finalized during a French-Uzbek business forum in Paris ahead of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s state visit. In 2024, bilateral trade exceeded $1.1 billion, a 14% increase from the previous year, with Uzbekistan’s exports to France nearly doubling to $800 million. More than 50 French companies, including Orano, SUEZ, Veolia, and Airbus, are currently operating in Uzbekistan.
Source: spot.uz
Banks to allocate $200 million in loans for women entrepreneurs
Uzbekistan will provide $200 million in loans to support women entrepreneurs. Funds will be distributed through the "Hamroh" program and family business initiatives. Commercial banks are also tasked with attracting an additional $100 million. The loans will support women in sectors like services, agriculture, and IT.
Source: spot.uz
IT Park Ventures invests $650 000 in three startups
Uzbekistan's IT Park Ventures has invested $650 000 in three local startups after reviewing over 100 applications. The largest investment of $250 000 went to Datatruck, a U.S.-focused freight automation platform. Geomotive, an outdoor advertising marketplace, received $200 000, while Unitlab AI, an AI data annotation service, secured $200 000.
Source: spot.uz
Tajikistan
Iranian airline to launch special flights between Dushanbe and Kish Island
Kish Airlines will operate direct flights between Dushanbe and Kish Island to boost tourism during Nowruz. According to Iranian media Didaremrooz, Airbus A321 flights will begin on March 16, with three planned departures. Further operations remain uncertain. Kish Island, located in the Persian Gulf, is a popular tourist destination known for its sandy beaches, clear waters, and various water activities.
Source: asiaplustj.info
Tajikistan’s President and EU Commissioner discuss energy investments
Tajikistan’s President Emomali Rahmon met with an EU commissioner to discuss investment in hydropower and green energy as part of the country's strategy to transition to renewable sources by 2037. The talks also covered economic cooperation and EU programs in the region. The visit is part of the EU’s Global Gateway initiative to boost investment in Central Asia.
Source: asiaplustj.info