This week in Central Asia saw breakthroughs in satellite internet trials, major sports victories, expanding airline networks, and new infrastructure projects. Countries across the region also advanced energy partnerships, digital initiatives, and international trade, highlighting the region’s growing role in technology, transport, and global cooperation.
Kazakhstan
Shanghai SpaceSail successfully tests Satellite Internet in Kazakhstan, plans 2026 launch
Chinese LEO satellite operator Shanghai SpaceSail has achieved speeds of up to 200 Mbps during trials in Kazakhstan’s Almaty region, paving the way for reliable broadband access in remote areas. The partnership aims to bridge the digital divide by connecting rural schools, healthcare facilities, and key infrastructure.
Source: astanatimes.com
Dastan Satpayev secures victory for “Kairat” over “Slovan” in Champions League Qualifier
Kazakhstan’s “Kairat” defeated Slovakia’s “Slovan” 1:0 in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League third qualifying round, thanks to a 90th-minute penalty scored by Dastan Satpayev. Playing in Almaty, the hosts capitalized on a late advantage after “Slovan” was reduced to ten men, setting up the return match in Slovakia on August 12.
Source: zakon.kz
Air Astana reports $10.7 million profit, expands with 20 new international routes
Air Astana Group posted a $10.7 million net profit in the first half of 2025, driven by a 12.1 revenue increase and the launch of 20 new routes, boosting connectivity across Asia and the Gulf. The airline, including its low-cost arm FlyArystan, also strengthened partnerships—such as a codeshare with China Southern Airlines—while modernizing its fleet and improving operational efficiency.
Source: astanatimes.com
Kazakhstan and Indonesia to deepen energy partnership
Kazakhstan and Indonesia have agreed to strengthen cooperation in the energy sector, with plans to sign a new Memorandum of Understanding focused on attracting investments and exchanging technologies. During talks in Astana, Energy Minister YerlanAkkenshenov emphasized Kazakhstan’s readiness to create favorable conditions for foreign partners, while Indonesian Ambassador MochamadFadjroel Rachman confirmed his country’s interest in joint oil and gas projects. The agreement is expected to boost energy security and foster long-term economic growth.
Source: gov.kz
Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan begin active phase of Underwater Fiber Optic Cable Project
Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan have begun the active stage of their first-ever underwater fiber optic cable project across the Caspian Sea, linking Aktau and Sumqayit to strengthen digital connectivity between Asia and Europe. The 380-kilometer cable, part of the Digital Silk Road initiative, is set for completion by late 2026 with a capacity of 400 terabits per second.
Source: astanatimes.com
Kyrgyzstan
American company to develop first theme park in Kyrgyzstan
U.S.-based IdeAttack will design and build a 50-hectare theme park in Tokmok, featuring attractions inspired by Central Asian culture, the Epic of Manas, and the Silk Road. The project, backed by Kyrgyz tourism authorities, aims to attract international visitors and marks IdeAttack’s debut in Central Asia.
Kyrgyzstan to host “Kyrgyzstan EXPO 2025” to boost International Trade and Investment
The Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Kyrgyz Republic will organize the international universal exhibition-fair Kyrgyzstan EXPO 2025. The event aims to promote economic and investment cooperation, expand trade links, and create new partnerships between Kyrgyz and foreign business communities. Key sectors on display will include industry, agriculture, transport, construction, energy, tourism, healthcare, education, IT, and food production, with delegations from over 10 countries expected.
Source: Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Kyrgyzstan and Romania discuss potential launch of Bishkek-Bucharest flight
Kyrgyzstan and Romania have discussed the potential launch of a direct Bishkek-Bucharest flight. The talks also addressed an intergovernmental air service agreement, aviation infrastructure development, and personnel training.
Source: 24.kg
Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan and China expand cooperation in biopharmaceuticals
During an official visit to China, Uzbekistan’s Pharmaceutical Industry Development Agency delegation held meetings with leading Chinese institutions, including the Science and Technology Park at Tianjin University of Science and Technology, the Tianjin International Joint Academy of Biomedicine, and CanSino Biologics. Discussions focused on supporting startups, commercializing scientific research, developing biopharmaceutical and biotech products, and launching joint innovative projects.
Source: uzdaily.uz
Uzbekistan promotes “Made in Uzbekistan” in U.S. Trade Mission
An Uzbek delegation led by the Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade showcased local textile products at major New York trade shows and met with leading U.S. brands to expand export opportunities. Talks in Washington also focused on reducing trade barriers, boosting investment, and introducing a “Made from U.S. Cotton” initiative.
Source: gov.uz
Uzbekistan and South Korea strengthen cooperation in geology and mineral resources
Uzbekistan and South Korea are advancing their joint project to create an integrated system for managing mineral resources and geological risks. During a meeting between the Uzbek Ministry of Mining Industry and Geology and South Korea’s KIGAM, the sides discussed building a national geological database to improve resource management and risk assessment. They agreed to select a pilot region for the system’s initial implementation before expanding it nationwide.
Source: uzdaily.uz
Uzbekistan joins Asian Cricket Council to boost sport’s growth
The Cricket Federation of Uzbekistan has become a member of the Asian Cricket Council, strengthening its ties with the regional cricket community and advancing grassroots development. With over 4000 players nationwide and facilities in Tashkent, Chirchiq, and Samarkand, Uzbekistan is laying the foundation for its first national team.
Source: timesca.com
Uzbekistan presents Climate Initiatives at UN Conference
At the 3rd UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries in Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan’s Minister of Ecology Aziz Abdukhakimov outlined national measures to combat climate change. He noted rising temperatures, increased drought, and the ongoing Aral Sea crisis, highlighting initiatives under the “Uzbekistan-2030” strategy, including emission limits, carbon regulation, and ecosystem restoration.
Source: uzdaily.uz
Uzbekistan secures hosting rights for 2026 International Olympiad in Informatics
Uzbekistan has officially been granted the right to host the International Olympiad in Informatics in 2026. At the 37th IOI in Sucre, Bolivia, the Uzbek team won a historic silver and a bronze medal — the country’s first-ever silver at the event — reflecting the success of ongoing IT reforms to strengthen programming skills among youth. Hosting the 2026 Olympiad is expected to further boost Uzbekistan’s IT education and global standing.
Source: uzdaily.uz
Tashkent to host first QS Eurasia Forum 2025
The first QS Eurasia Forum 2025, organized by QS Quacquarelli Symonds, will be held at Central Asian University in Tashkent on November 25–26 under the patronage of Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation. The event will bring together academic leaders, policymakers, and industry experts to discuss expanding global collaboration, boosting institutional visibility, and strengthening Eurasia’s role in higher education.
Source: uznews.uz
Turkmenistan
Turkmenistan to continue active role in IOM projects
On the sidelines of the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries, Turkmenistan met with the IOM to discuss cooperation on safe and legal migration, reaffirming its commitment to participate in the organization’s projects.
Source: mfa.gov.tm
Tajikistan
Tajikistan opens Advanced Radiation Mapping Laboratory
On August 7, the Agency for CBRN Safety under Tajikistan’s National Academy of Sciences launched a new high-tech laboratory to create precise radiation maps. Equipped with advanced software and GIS tools, the facility will improve radiation monitoring, forecasting, and response, supporting national safety and environmental protection.
Source: asiapustj.info
EU and Tajikistan seal Modern Partnership Agreement
The EU and Tajikistan have initialed a new Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (EPCA), replacing their 2004 deal to expand collaboration in trade, human rights, sustainable development, energy, and digitalization. EU official Luc Devigne said the agreement marks a “positive step forward” and confirmed continued EU support for Tajikistan’s hydropower, infrastructure, and social development projects.
Source: asiaplustj.info
Tajikistan unveils unified E-Government portal and AI Assistant in Tajik
Tajikistan has launched ehukumat.tj, a centralized e-government platform offering over 20 digital public services, and introduced Bonoor, the country’s first AI assistant designed specifically for the Tajik language. The portal already has 1.5 million users and aims to expand services to over 50 by year’s end, while Bonoor represents a major step in localized AI technology.
Source: asiaplustj.info
Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan explores cooperation with SpaceX on innovation and Space technologies
During a working trip, Azerbaijan held talks with SpaceX on the country’s economic potential, investment opportunities, and prospects for cooperation in space technologies, AI, and knowledge exchange.
Source: 1news.az
Azerbaijan and U.S. Special Envoy discuss cooperation in Washington
Azerbaijan and the United States have signed a memorandum between SOCAR and ExxonMobil, aimed at strengthening energy and economic cooperation. The agreement opens opportunities for joint projects, technology exchange, and expanded investment in the energy sector.
Source: president.az