Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan Set New Economic Priorities at High-Level Astana Meeting

Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan have outlined fresh priorities for deeper cooperation following the 13th expanded meeting of the Intergovernmental Council, held in Astana.

The session, chaired by Kyrgyz Cabinet Chairman Adylbek Kasymaliev and Kazakh Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov, focused on strengthening ties across trade, energy, water management, and cultural and humanitarian sectors, The Caspian Post informs via Kyrgyz media.

Major trade and logistics projects

A key highlight was the discussion on creating a joint industrial trade and logistics complex in the border zone, along with a wholesale distribution center for fruit and vegetable storage in Kazakhstan’s Almaty region. Officials say the project will help ensure stable, uninterrupted delivery of agricultural goods year-round.

The two countries also agreed to work on a new mechanism allowing Kazakhstan to supply oil and oil products to Kyrgyzstan under an intergovernmental agreement - a move expected to boost energy security.

Border checkpoint upgrades nearing completion

Both sides noted steady progress on the reconstruction of several checkpoints - Kichi-Kapka-Besagash, Ak-Tilek-Karasu, and Karkyra-Kegen. These upgrades, along with the restoration of the Nizhniy Chui-Ak-Suu crossing, are expected to significantly accelerate trade flows and reduce border delays.

Target: $3 billion in trade by 2030

Kasymaliev and Bektenov reaffirmed their shared goal of increasing bilateral trade turnover to $3 billion by 2030, emphasizing plans to intensify joint work across all relevant sectors.

Cooperation protocol

The meeting concluded with the signing of a comprehensive protocol covering cooperation in trade, investment, water and energy, culture, tourism, and interregional partnerships.

Kasymaliev’s working visit to Kazakhstan wrapped up following the talks, marking a productive step toward stronger regional integration.