Bilateral Cooperation - The Times Of Central Asia

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Higher Education

Italian University Opens Branch in Kazakhstan to Train Agricultural Specialists

Marche Polytechnic University of Ancona, Italy, has officially opened a branch campus at Zhetysu University named after Ilyas Zhansugurov in Taldykorgan, the administrative center of Kazakhstan’s southeastern Zhetysu region. The inauguration ceremony on July 16 was attended by prominent officials including Zhetysu Region Governor Beibit Isabayev, Minister of Science and Higher Education Sayasat Nurbek, and Italian Ambassador to Kazakhstan Antonello De Riu. Marche Polytechnic University is a public institution that offers a broad range of academic programs in agriculture, engineering, economics, medicine, and biology. The new branch in Kazakhstan is expected to focus on disciplines that align with the region’s agricultural priorities, including agriculture, food engineering, tourism, economics, and digital technologies. Addressing the Region’s Workforce Needs In his remarks, Nurbek emphasized the importance of developing local expertise to support the region’s growing agri-tech and greenhouse sectors. “Our region is in need of agronomists and digital specialists to support the growth of our greenhouse complexes,” he said. “This new branch will help meet that demand with targeted academic programs.” Isabayev highlighted the regional administration’s support for the initiative, announcing 14 scholarships for students during the first stage of enrollment. “Our region is an agricultural one,” he said. “We need skilled professionals who can introduce innovation and advanced technologies into the sector.” A Boost for Bilateral Cooperation De Riu praised the initiative as a significant milestone in Kazakh-Italian academic cooperation. “Collaboration with Zhetysu University is a key part of Italy’s international strategy,” he said. “We will implement joint projects in education and scientific research and share expertise that enhances both institutions. This is not just about opening new opportunities, it's a real step forward in strengthening the friendship and partnership between Kazakhstan and Italy.” Faculty members from Marche Polytechnic University will deliver courses at the new branch, while students will benefit from access to joint research opportunities and international internships. Graduates will receive dual diplomas from both institutions.

Foreign Affairs

Kyrgyzstan and Russia Reaffirm Strategic Partnership in Moscow Talks

Kyrgyzstan and Russia have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation across diverse sectors following a high-level meeting between President Vladimir Putin and Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov at the Kremlin on July 2. President Putin welcomed President Japarov to Moscow with praise for the positive trajectory of economic ties between the two countries. “Last year, bilateral trade increased by over 11%, and in the first four months of this year, it grew by more than 17%,” Putin noted during the reception. He emphasized that Russia remains one of Kyrgyzstan’s key trade and economic partners, highlighting the role of the Russian-Kyrgyz Development Fund, which continues to support industrial and agricultural initiatives in Kyrgyzstan. Putin also noted the expanding footprint of Russian businesses in the country. Cultural and educational cooperation featured prominently in the discussions. Putin pointed out that approximately 200 Russian teachers are currently working in 43 schools across Kyrgyzstan. “We have launched new school construction projects and plan to expand the number of Russian-language schools,” he said, expressing gratitude to Japarov for maintaining the official status of the Russian language in Kyrgyzstan. Russian remains one of Kyrgyzstan’s official languages and continues to function as a key medium of communication in the country’s multi-ethnic society. President Japarov echoed the strong political alignment between Bishkek and Moscow. “There is full mutual understanding and trust between our countries. There are no political differences or contradictions,” he stated. Japarov also highlighted the potential for further cooperation in sectors including energy, transport, industry, and agriculture, reinforcing the enduring strategic partnership between the two nations.

State Visit

Opinion: Mirziyoyev’s Historic Visit Opens New Era for Uzbekistan-Mongolia Ties

Uzbekistan’s President Shavkat Mirziyoyev embarked on a historic journey to Mongolia on June 24-25, marking a significant milestone in the relationship between the two nations. This landmark visit, the first of its kind in over thirty years since the establishment of diplomatic ties, signifies a new era of collaboration and potential growth in Central Asia. Accompanied by his wife, Mirziyoyev was warmly received in Ulaanbaatar by Mongolian Foreign Minister Batmunkh Battsetseg and a host of other dignitaries. Their arrival set the stage for discussions aimed at unlocking vast opportunities for multifaceted cooperation and development, reflecting a shared vision for a prosperous future. Despite the significant geographical distance that separates Uzbekistan and Mongolia, the two nations are witnessing a remarkable evolution in their bilateral relations. This burgeoning partnership spans several domains, including diplomacy, economics, transportation, culture, and humanitarian efforts. A pivotal moment in this relationship was marked by the recent inauguration of the Mongolian Embassy in Tashkent, which symbolizes a commitment to fostering closer ties. Additionally, the increased frequency of intergovernmental and interparliamentary dialogue reflects a shared ambition to enhance collaboration. The signing of 14 bilateral agreements further underscores a mutual desire to cultivate trust and strengthen the partnership, paving the way for a promising future. In recent years, the partnership between Uzbekistan and Mongolia has experienced a remarkable surge in trade and investment. This dynamic growth is underpinned by a robust and multifaceted cooperation that spans numerous sectors, showcasing the commitment of both nations to strengthening ties. Between 2018 and 2023, trade between Uzbekistan and Mongolia experienced a significant increase, rising by more than 8.8 times. This impressive upward trajectory has continued into the early months of 2025, with preliminary data indicating a sustained expansion. Uzbekistan exports a variety of goods to Mongolia, including vital agricultural and industrial products, while Mongolia has ramped up its livestock exports, enriching the trading landscape. The establishment of numerous joint ventures exemplifies, with many ventures operating in Uzbekistan featuring 100% Mongolian capital, primarily in the realms of trade and services. Both nations are actively identifying and pursuing opportunities for collaborative projects in critical areas, including logistics, agro-processing, and machinery manufacturing. A particular emphasis is placed on joint production initiatives in sectors such as leather, wool, and cashmere processing, as well as the fabrication of electrical equipment, machinery, and construction materials. Agricultural cooperation is also a key focus, with plans for joint clusters and projects aimed at the processing and production of meat, dairy, wool, and leather products. Enhancing transport interconnectivity and developing innovative logistics routes are prioritized, with a direct air service between the capitals anticipated to be in place by the end of the year. Cultural and humanitarian exchanges are being fostered through initiatives such as the Days of Uzbek Culture, which take place in Ulaanbaatar, and the return of Mongolian students to Uzbek universities. The recent meeting between the President of Uzbekistan and the President of Mongolia, Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh, marked a significant step toward enhancing bilateral cooperation. Both leaders engaged in productive...

Belt and Road Initiative

Kyrgyz PM Highlights Belt and Road as Strategic Priority

Kyrgyzstan regards China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) as a strategic pillar of bilateral cooperation aimed at modernizing infrastructure and attracting investment, Prime Minister Adylbek Kasymaliyev said during a panel session on BRI prospects at the 2025 Summer Davos in Tianjin on June 24. “In today’s geopolitical climate, marked by tension, uncertainty, and international fragmentation, the Belt and Road Initiative remains a vital platform for global cooperation,” Kasymaliyev stated. He emphasized that Kyrgyzstan was one of the first countries to support and actively participate in the initiative, which was launched 12 years ago and has since expanded to include numerous countries worldwide. Many of these nations, he noted, are already experiencing the tangible benefits of BRI-related cooperation. Five Pillars of Engagement Kasymaliyev outlined five strategic areas in which Kyrgyzstan is cooperating with China under the BRI framework: Transport Connectivity “Kyrgyzstan is ready to leverage its geographic location and transit potential to become a key logistics hub linking Asia and Europe,” he said. The construction of new transport corridors under the BRI is central to this vision, particularly in enhancing Eurasian connectivity. Trade and Economic Cooperation Kasymaliyev called for deeper trade and investment ties. He positioned Kyrgyzstan as a potential gateway for Chinese and other foreign investors to access markets in both the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) and the European Union. Financial Sector Development Highlighting ongoing reforms, he noted that Kyrgyzstan’s financial sector, including its capital market, is undergoing active development. Digitalization and Innovation Kyrgyzstan supports the development of the Digital Silk Road and is home to a high technology park offering favorable conditions for resident companies engaged in digital and tech innovation. Energy Cooperation Kasymaliyev pointed to ongoing and planned energy initiatives, including renewable energy projects, as a key area for future collaboration. “Kyrgyzstan remains committed to the principles of the Belt and Road Initiative, which is gaining even greater relevance in today’s complex global environment,” he concluded. High-Level Bilateral Dialogue Also on June 24, Kasymaliyev held talks with Chinese Premier Li Qiang. The Chinese premier reaffirmed Beijing’s commitment to aligning its development strategy with Kyrgyzstan’s and urged continued progress on interconnection projects, most notably the long-discussed China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway.

Afghanistan

Interview: Taliban-Ruled Afghanistan Looks to Kazakhstan

ASTANA - War-torn Afghanistan, now led by the Taliban, is in desperate need of funding. The radical group is seizing every opportunity to secure not only financial support but also major infrastructure projects that could help rebuild the country. In late May, a delegation of Taliban representatives, led by Haji Nooruddin Azizi, the Minister of Trade and Industry, visited Kazakhstan to attend the Astana International Forum (AIF). During the summit, they spoke with The Times of Central Asia, discussing their ambitions and plans. It was their first participation in the prominent forum, made possible by Kazakhstan’s 2024 decision to remove the Taliban from its list of terrorist organizations. Since then, Kazakhstani political and business leaders have traveled to Kabul on several occasions aiming to establish closer relations with the Islamic Emirate. [caption id="attachment_32607" align="aligncenter" width="1600"] Image: TCA, Nikola Mikovic[/caption] Most recently, during a meeting with Azizi, Kazakhstan’s President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev emphasized the need to strengthen political ties with Afghanistan. The economy, however, seems to play an equally important role in this relationship, with Astana aiming to increase its bilateral trade volume with Afghanistan to $3 billion in the coming years. Kazakhstan is also eyeing investing $500 million in the construction of the 115-kilometer (71 miles) Turgundi–Herat railway line, a section of the rail corridor linking Turgundi in the north of Afghanistan and Spin Boldak on the country’s border with Pakistan. The route effectively connects Central and South Asia via Afghanistan. Neighboring Turkmenistan is also interested in participating in this project, as the railway aims to connect Central Asia to Pakistan’s Karachi and Gwadar ports, providing Turkmenistan and its neighbors access to vast South Asian markets. The Turgundi–Herat–Kandahar–Spin Boldak railway line is considered a key segment of the broader Trans-Afghan Railway project, which even Russia has expressed an interest in joining. “It is still too early to discuss who will build the railway, although it is clear that Afghan companies are unlikely to be able to undertake the project,” Mirwais Ghafouri, Senior Advisor of the Afghanistan Railway Authority, told The Times of Central Asia in an interview. In his view, given that Afghanistan is a mountainous country, the entire project will cost at least $2–3 billion. The problem for Kabul is that – due to various sanctions and the fact that most countries still do not officially recognize the Taliban-led government – it cannot count on significant support from international financial institutions such as the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank. “But we expect Kazakhstan to invest in this project, as well as in our economy in general. The shortest route connecting Central Asia and South Asia is through Afghanistan. Once the railway is complete, Kazakhstan and other Central Asian nations will be able to use it to export their agricultural products to huge markets such as India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh”, Ghafouri stressed, pointing out that Kabul and Astana are currently working on a project feasibility study. The Taliban appear to be aiming to revive nearly all previously announced projects...

Water resources

Kyrgyzstan Offers Support to Tajikistan with Innovative Water-Saving Technology

Kyrgyzstan is offering a novel solution to Tajikistan’s mounting water scarcity and pasture degradation: the construction of artificial glaciers, or so-called “ice towers.” These structures store water during the winter and release it during the arid summer months, providing a lifeline for communities affected by climate change. Innovation Amid a Warming Climate The initiative was highlighted during the session “Activating Global Action to Enhance Glacier Resilience: Civil Society Experiences in Central Asia,” held as part of the recent International Conference on Glacier Conservation in Dushanbe. According to Anar Alymkulova, executive director of Kyrgyzstan’s Institute for Sustainable Development, artificial glaciers have proven effective in mitigating the effects of climate change and addressing water shortages. Since the first ice tower was constructed in 2022 in Jalal-Abad, the initiative has expanded significantly. Two more towers were added in 2023, and in 2024, seven were built in Batken region, collectively storing over 1.5 million cubic meters of ice during the winter. By the end of this year, four additional towers are planned in the Batken and Leylek districts. In total, approximately 30 such structures now operate across Kyrgyzstan. How Ice Towers Work The technology is simple yet effective. Water from springs is channeled via an underground pipeline, spanning several kilometers, to a vertical pipe up to 20 meters tall. During winter, water is sprayed from the pipe and freezes, forming an ice tower 30 to 50 meters high. In the spring and summer, the ice melts gradually, supplying water for people and livestock. Oleg Guchgeldiev, Kyrgyzstan's representative in the UN's Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), noted that each ice tower costs between $3,000 and $4,000 and can store up to 50,000 cubic meters of water. This method offers a practical solution in remote, arid regions where traditional water sources have become unreliable. A Critical Issue for Tajikistan Sustainable water management is a growing concern in Tajikistan, where more than 1,000 glaciers have disappeared in the last 23 years. The country has lost about 20% of its glacier volume and 30% of its glacier area over the past five to six decades. According to UNEP projections, Central Asia could lose over half its glaciers by 2050, jeopardizing water security for more than 64 million people, particularly in rural and mountainous areas. In response, the Tajikistan's President Emomali Rahmon spearheaded a successful campaign at the UN General Assembly to declare 2025 the International Year of Glacier Conservation. The initiative culminated in a major conference from May 29 to 31 in Dushanbe, attracting over 2,500 delegates from 80 countries and numerous international organizations. A Scalable Regional Solution The Kyrgyz model of artificial glaciers presents a scalable solution for Tajikistan and potentially the broader Central Asian region. As glacier retreat accelerates and drought risks rise, such technologies could play a key role in national climate adaptation strategies. “Artificial glaciers are not only a way to store water, but also a tool for adapting to a changing climate,” experts at the Dushanbe conference emphasized. “They demonstrate how local communities...