Kazakhstan and the World Bank have discussed ways to expand cooperation on infrastructure development, economic reforms and regional connectivity.

Deputy Prime Minister and National Economy Minister Serik Zhumangarin met with Abebe Adugna, the World Bank’s Regional Director for Prosperity in Europe and Central Asia, to review Kazakhstan’s economic outlook, reform agenda and investment priorities, according to Qazinform.

Zhumangarin described the partnership with the World Bank Group as strategic. Over the past 33 years, more than 50 projects worth over $8 billion have been implemented in Kazakhstan with the Bank’s support.

The projects have covered areas including transport, education, environmental protection, green technologies and digitalization.

Adugna, meanwhile, noted Kazakhstan’s positive economic performance, particularly its growth and investment activity.

A major focus of the meeting was infrastructure financing. World Bank representatives stressed that large-scale infrastructure investments should be accompanied by institutional and regulatory reforms to improve efficiency, raise productivity and encourage innovation.

Zhumangarin said Kazakhstan sees infrastructure development as part of a broader regional strategy rather than solely a domestic priority.

“Kazakhstan’s infrastructure is only the first step toward creating a large, integrated infrastructure network across Central Asia. This is not just about improving our roads and railways. We need to ensure that these transport links generate economic benefits for both Kazakhstan and neighboring countries,” he said.

The World Bank reaffirmed its readiness to work with Kazakhstan on infrastructure financing mechanisms, drawing on international experience and best practices.

The latest discussions build on broader cooperation between Kazakhstan and the World Bank. Earlier, Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov held bilateral meetings with World Bank Vice President for Europe and Central Asia Antonella Bassani, as well as senior executives from Chevron and Shell, during the 38th plenary session of the Foreign Investors’ Council under the President of Kazakhstan.