The Times Of Central Asia

07 Nov 2025

Kyrgyzstan, Kyrgyzstan Supplementary Stories

Kyrgyzstan to Nationalize Driving Schools and Reform Driver Training

November 7, 2025
By Anton Chipegin

Kyrgyzstan has announced sweeping reforms to its driver training system, set to take effect at the beginning of 2026. All private driving schools will be brought under state control, and the duration of driver training will be extended from three months to fourteen.

The reform was presented at a press conference in Bishkek by Kanybek Tumanbaev, Chief of Staff to the President. He stated that the initiative aims to improve road safety and curb corruption in the issuance of driver’s licenses.

“There are too many traffic accidents in Kyrgyzstan today. Young people admit to purchasing driver’s licenses through private driving schools, where practical training often lasts just two or three hours,” Tumanbaev said.

Under the new system, practical instruction will take place across different seasons, including both summer and winter driving conditions. The curriculum will also include courses on vehicle maintenance and driving etiquette. All exams will be administered under state supervision to prevent bribery and ensure consistent standards.

Private driving instructors will not lose their jobs; instead, they will be integrated into the new state-run driving schools. The cost of training for citizens is expected to remain unchanged. Authorities also plan to introduce a partially online format for theoretical classes.

As part of the reform, Kyrgyzstan will abolish indefinite driver’s licenses. Beginning in 2026, all newly issued licenses will be valid for 10 years, aligning with international standards. Citizens holding permanent licenses will be required to exchange them for the new format starting in January 2026. The replacement process will be free of charge and will not require retesting.

The reforms are a response to persistently high accident rates and what officials describe as inadequate driver education. In 2024, Kyrgyzstan recorded 7,423 traffic accidents resulting in 514 deaths. In the first nine months of 2025, that figure rose to 9,078 accidents with 636 fatalities.

07 Nov 2025

International Affairs, Central Asia, Home, Lead Supplementary 2, Kazakhstan, Kazakhstan International Affairs

Washington Steps Up Focus on Central Asia Amid Strategic Competition with China

November 7, 2025
By Vagit Ismailov

The United States has intensified its interest in Central Asia following China’s decision to restrict exports of rare earth elements. Amid the broader U.S.–China trade rivalry, Washington is seeking to diversify its sources of strategic raw materials and strengthen economic ties with countries in the region.

Analysts note that Central Asia is increasingly viewed as a key part of Washington’s strategy to reduce dependence on Chinese supply chains. However, they point to several obstacles, including high logistics costs, underdeveloped export infrastructure, and what they describe as a high-risk investment environment that limits the commercial viability of many projects.

Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan: Pillars of U.S. Engagement

Among the countries of the region, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan offer the greatest potential for rare earth element extraction and present favorable conditions for U.S. cooperation. Kazakhstan is strengthening its partnerships with Western investors in the mining sector, while Uzbekistan has implemented market reforms and opened its economy to foreign capital in recent years.

Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, currently visiting the U.S., has reiterated his government’s interest in attracting American investment and technology, including through the C5+1 regional format. After his visit to Washington, he is scheduled to travel to Moscow for a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on November 12, reflecting Kazakhstan’s longstanding policy of balancing relations among major powers.

Kyrgyzstan Banks on the Digital Economy

Lacking major oil and gas reserves, Kyrgyzstan is pursuing a different path by developing partnerships with the U.S. in financial technology and digital assets.

During talks with U.S. President Donald Trump in Washington, Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov said the country’s most valuable asset is its educated youth, who are increasingly active in the IT sector. Japarov outlined several initiatives, including the introduction of digital financial instruments such as the national stablecoin KGST.

He also noted the importance of the U.S. Genius Act, which regulates stablecoin circulation, calling it one of the most progressive in the world. In response, the U.S. expressed its readiness to expand cooperation in digital transformation and fintech development.

Tajikistan Prioritizes Energy and Security

Tajik President Emomali Rahmon participated in the C5+1 summit in Washington and held separate talks with President Trump. The discussions focused on energy, investment, and regional security.

Rahmon said that peace and stability are essential for sustainable development and reaffirmed Tajikistan’s readiness to expand cooperation with the U.S. in green energy and regional electricity transmission projects.

At present, more than 70 U.S.-affiliated companies operate in Tajikistan. American investment in mineral extraction and processing is viewed as a promising area for future collaboration. The two sides also discussed joint efforts to combat transnational threats, including terrorism, extremism, and drug trafficking.

Turkmenistan Maintains Its Neutral Stance

In contrast to the active diplomatic engagements of its neighbors, Turkmenistan continues to adhere to its traditional policy of neutrality. Ashgabat has so far refrained from joining initiatives that could be perceived as aligning with geopolitical blocs. Nonetheless, the U.S. remains interested in Turkmenistan’s energy potential, particularly regarding prospects for diversifying gas exports to Europe through the Caspian corridor.

Navigating Between Washington, Moscow, and Beijing

Central Asian countries continue to navigate the competing interests of Russia, China, and the United States, seeking to leverage this rivalry to their advantage. For Washington, the region remains strategically important as a source of critical raw materials, a transit corridor, and a partner in maintaining stability across the broader Eurasian space.

Ultimately, the success of U.S. engagement in Central Asia will depend not only on diplomatic momentum but also on Washington’s ability to provide credible economic alternatives to those offered by China and Russia.

07 Nov 2025

Central Asia, Home, Kyrgyzstan, Local Politics, Kyrgyzstan Local Politics, Kyrgyzstan Home

Kyrgyz Authorities Reject Proposal to Let Wealthy Pay for Unlimited Electricity Amid Winter Deficit

November 7, 2025
By Sergey Kwan

As winter nears, the National Electric Grid of Kyrgyzstan introduced new electricity consumption limits for households, cutting the cap from 5 kilowatts to 3 kilowatts during peak morning and evening hours. At the same time, the company proposed allowing citizens to pay a higher tariff for unlimited electricity usage.

The proposal sparked immediate backlash amid Kyrgyzstan’s chronic autumn-winter energy shortages, when many households depend on electric heating.

President Sadyr Japarov swiftly condemned the initiative, calling it “unacceptable” during a period of scarcity. He warned that such a measure risked deepening social inequality and ordered the immediate cancellation of the unlimited-use tariff. Japarov also directed officials to implement equitable policies to ensure fair access to electricity for all citizens during the winter.

Following the president’s intervention, the Ministry of Energy stated that the proposal had been introduced without its approval. The ministry also announced disciplinary action against the leadership of the National Electric Grid of Kyrgyzstan.

On November 6, the Cabinet of Ministers introduced a series of emergency measures aimed at promoting responsible energy consumption. These include restrictions on the use of indoor and outdoor lighting and electrical equipment in government institutions between 6:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.

Exemptions apply to strategic facilities and institutions that provide defense, security, healthcare, and social services, as well as those operating 24/7. The Cabinet estimates that the new measures could save up to 40 million kilowatt-hours of electricity per month.

Government data shows that in the first nine months of 2025, electricity consumption increased by nearly 1 billion kilowatt-hours, largely due to the launch of new industrial sites, schools, and residential developments.

Energy Minister Taalaibek Ibraev recently warned that the upcoming winter could be among the most challenging in years, citing critically low water levels at the Toktogul reservoir, which supplies approximately 40% of Kyrgyzstan’s electricity.

In 2024, the country consumed 18.3 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity, up 1.1 billion kWh from the previous year. To cover the shortfall, Kyrgyzstan imported 3.6 billion kWh from Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Russia. Additional imports have already been secured for the 2025-2026 winter.

President Japarov has pledged that Kyrgyzstan will achieve energy self-sufficiency during winter months within two and a half years.

“In two and a half years, we will no longer import electricity during winter. We will have enough domestically produced power,” Japarov said, urging citizens to remain patient as the government works to address the crisis.

The country’s long-term energy security hinges on the construction of the Kambarata-1 Hydropower Plant, which is expected to be the largest in Kyrgyzstan and Central Asia. Once completed, it will have an installed capacity of 1,860 MW and generate 5.6 billion kilowatt-hours annually. The project is being developed in partnership with Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.

07 Nov 2025

Central Asia, Home, Business & Economy, Kazakhstan, Kazakhstan Business & Economy, Kazakhstan Home

Kazakhstan Presents “Growth Case” to Global Investors in London

November 7, 2025
By Vagit Ismailov

Kazakhstan is deepening its engagement with UK capital markets. At the Kazakhstan Capital Markets Day 2025 conference in London, Deputy Minister of National Economy Asan Darbayev outlined the country’s economic growth strategy and measures to enhance its investment climate.

Speaking during the panel session “Sustainable Economic Growth and Financial Sector Development,” Darbayev highlighted that Kazakhstan’s real GDP grew by 6.3% in the first nine months of 2025, one of the strongest performances in recent years. The government’s medium-term target is to reach a GDP of $450 billion by 2029.

Infrastructure development remains central to Kazakhstan’s strategy to position itself as a key transit and investment hub in Eurasia. Currently, five international rail corridors and eight road corridors are operational, including the strategically vital Middle Corridor. This infrastructure forms the backbone of Kazakhstan’s growing export and import routes and supports the localization of industrial production.

Darbayev reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s standing as a reliable and creditworthy partner. The country maintains investment-grade ratings from S&P, Fitch, and Moody’s. Notably, S&P upgraded its outlook to “Positive,” while Moody’s raised Kazakhstan’s rating to Baa1 last year.

To attract long-term investment, Kazakhstan offers a range of incentives, including investment contracts, tax and customs preferences, and legislative stability guarantees for up to 25 years.

Investor engagement is facilitated through a digital investment platform operating on a “single window” principle, supported by the Investment Attraction Council. The council is tasked with removing administrative barriers and accelerating project approvals.

A major draw for international capital is the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC), which operates under English common law. The AIFC hosts more than 3,500 companies from over 80 countries, with cumulative investments exceeding $14 billion. The center’s emphasis on transparency and legal protections has made it a trusted destination for global investors.

Kazakhstan continues to attract investment in oil and gas, engineering, transportation, and the food and beverage sectors. Major partners include Chevron, ExxonMobil, Shell, GE Transportation, Hyundai, KIA, Coca-Cola, Danone, Carlsberg, and Lactalis, reflecting interest in high value-added projects and technology localization.

During the forum, Darbayev also held meetings with executives from Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG) and Morgan Stanley Investment Management (MSIM), further promoting Kazakhstan’s economic agenda to global financial leaders.

07 Nov 2025

Central Asia, Turkmenistan Home, Home, Turkmenistan Life & Culture, Turkmenistan, Life & Culture

Turkmen Border Guards Delay Medical Aid for Seriously Injured Man at Shavat Checkpoint

November 7, 2025
By Vagit Ismailov

At the border between Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, a seriously injured man was forced to wait for hours at the Shavat checkpoint after Turkmen border guards refused to allow immediate medical evacuation while verifying his documents.

The incident involved a married couple from Kunya-Urgench, Turkmenistan, who were en route to visit relatives in Uzbekistan’s Andijan region when they were involved in a car accident on October 13. The man, who was sitting in the front seat, sustained multiple injuries, including broken ribs, a fractured shoulder and foot, and numerous bruises and lacerations. His wife, who was in the back seat, suffered only minor bruises.

Following the accident, both were taken to the Khorezm Regional Hospital in Urgench, Uzbekistan, where the man underwent treatment for nine days. His injuries required extensive casting.

On October 22, an Uzbek medical commission declared him fit for transport and approved his transfer to Turkmenistan for further treatment.

An ambulance transported the patient to the Shavat checkpoint, accompanied by a doctor and his wife. At approximately 11:00 a.m., Turkmen border guards carried the man, still on a stretcher, across the border, assuring the family that an ambulance had already been dispatched from Dashoguz.

However, no medical team arrived for another five hours. The man remained on a stretcher on the ground beside the border post until 4:00 p.m., while his wife repeatedly pleaded with officers to call the ambulance again.

Although the border guards assisted the man twice when he needed to relieve himself, they did not provide medical assistance. It later emerged that officials were conducting background checks, verifying the authenticity of the couple’s visas, and contacting Ashgabat as well as the Uzbek embassy to confirm the couple’s stated purpose of visiting relatives rather than engaging in commercial activity.

When the ambulance eventually arrived, yet another obstacle emerged: Dashoguz Regional Hospital refused to admit the patient, citing concerns over the validity of the diagnosis and the origin of the medical documentation.

Only after the intervention of higher authorities was the man finally admitted for treatment.

07 Nov 2025

Central Asia, Home, Kazakhstan Local Politics, Local Politics, Kazakhstan, Kazakhstan Home

Alatau to Become First City in Kazakhstan with Air Taxi System

November 7, 2025
By Dmitry Pokidaev

Alatau, a newly established city in southern Kazakhstan near the country’s largest metropolis, Almaty, is set to become the first in the nation to launch an air taxi system.

Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development recently signed a memorandum of understanding with U.S. based Joby Aero, Inc. for the purchase of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft valued at approximately $300 million. The aircraft will form the basis of a new urban air mobility system.

The agreement also includes Alatau Advance Air Group Ltd., a local operator and integrator of air mobility technologies, and Vyacheslav Kim, chairman of the board of directors at Kaspi.kz and a key investor in the Alatau City development project.

Plans for the construction of Alatau City were unveiled in late 2024, when four villages near Almaty were merged to create a new urban agglomeration. The city aims to attract $7.2 billion in investment and grow to a population of 2 million. It will also be part of a special economic zone that includes more than 170 planned projects worth a combined $24.4 billion. Authorities hope to position Alatau as a leading destination for investors.

Joby Aero, Inc., a global leader in eVTOL aviation and the developer of certified electric air taxis, will supply aircraft capable of vertical take-off and landing. These aircraft will anchor Kazakhstan’s first urban air mobility initiative. The agreement also includes the creation of a testing site in southern Kazakhstan for certification and demonstration flights, along with plans to integrate air taxis into the transport systems of both Alatau and Almaty.

Joby’s electric aircraft can travel up to 160 kilometers on a single charge and reach speeds of up to 322 km/h. The distance between Almaty and Alatau is approximately 34 kilometers.

“Kazakhstan is taking a step into the future of innovative transport. The purchase of electric eVTOL aircraft marks an important milestone in developing smart cities and integrating cutting-edge technologies,” said Zhaslan Madiyev, Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development. “This move will shape Alatau as a city built on the technologies of tomorrow.”

As previously reported by The Times of Central Asia, Kazakh authorities plan to launch commercial air taxi operations as early as next year.