ASTANA, Kazakhstan, February 6. Since
commencing operations in Kazakhstan, the European Bank for
Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has backed a portfolio of 345
projects, with a total value exceeding $12 billion, Trend reports via the press
service of the Kazakh government.
This milestone was highlighted during a meeting between
Kazakhstan’s Prime Minister, Olzhas Bektenov, and the EBRD’s
Managing Director for Central Asia and Mongolia, Hüseyin Özhan,
held within the framework of the Foreign Investors’ Council in
Astana.
Bektenov and Ozhan also explored the potential for a strategic
partnership between Kazakhstan and the EBRD, focusing on key
priority sectors. A new framework for engagement with international
financial institutions was introduced, featuring the creation of a
Coordinating Council, chaired by the Prime Minister, to oversee
future collaboration.
The Kazakh government reiterated its commitment to ensuring the
effective implementation of joint initiatives.
In addition, on the margins of the Council, Bektenov held
discussions with Evgeniy Nastradin, President of Beeline
Kazakhstan. They deliberated on the further expansion of digital
infrastructure and the execution of collaborative projects with
VEON Group in Kazakhstan.
Beeline Kazakhstan’s contributions to serving over 11 million
subscribers, alongside its role in advancing digital inclusion and
literacy, were also highlighted and acknowledged.
The EBRD’s strategic priorities in Kazakhstan focus on enhancing
the competitiveness of the private sector, fostering improved
connectivity, and reinforcing economic governance. The bank also
plays a pivotal role in supporting Kazakhstan’s transition to a
green economy, prioritizing carbon neutrality, climate resilience,
and broader economic inclusivity, including promoting gender
equality through private-sector development initiatives. The bank
started operating in Kazakhstan in 1992.
