Kazakhstan has donated five locomotives to Kyrgyzstan as part of ongoing cooperation in transport infrastructure, the Kazakhstan Agency of International Development (KazAID) announced. Two shunting locomotives and three mainline locomotives were transferred free of charge to Kyrgyz Temir Jolu, Kyrgyzstan’s national railway company. The donation was facilitated by KazAID, which aims to strengthen Kazakhstan’s regional ties through cooperation in transport, energy, and infrastructure.
“This step demonstrates the continued successful implementation of official assistance, contributing to the development and strengthening of fraternal relations between Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan,” said KazAID Chairman Arken Arystanov.
The locomotives are expected to significantly enhance freight transportation and maneuverability on Kyrgyzstan’s railways, supporting the country’s economic growth and regional connectivity.
Kyrgyzstan’s Railway Modernization Efforts
Kyrgyzstan has recently taken key steps to modernize its railway infrastructure and expand regional transport links.
- Trans-Eurasian Route Project: In February 2025, Kyrgyzstan signed a public-private partnership (PPP) agreement with U.S.-based consortium All American Rail Group Global Infrastructure Partner LLC for the construction of a $3 billion railway. The new east-west line will traverse Kyrgyzstan’s mountainous terrain, connecting Karakol in the Issyk-Kul region with Makmal in Jalal-Abad.
- China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan Railway: In December 2024, construction officially began on this 523-kilometer railway, designed to serve as a key east- west trade corridor. The project will link China, Central Asia, the Middle East (including Turkey, and the European Union.)
Kazakhstan’s locomotive donation aligns with Kyrgyzstan’s broader efforts to enhance regional transport infrastructure, strengthening economic ties and facilitating greater trade opportunities.
