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Japan

From Hydropower to Human Capital: Japarov Plans Strategic Visit to Japan

Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov is preparing for a visit to Japan that underscores growing strategic ties between the two countries. Kyrgyz officials say they plan to sign energy and infrastructure agreements in Tokyo, including support for a training center for the national electric grid and upgrades at the Kurpsai hydropower plant, according to Trend, citing the Kyrgyz Energy Ministry. The same report notes that grant funding from Japan’s international cooperation programs will back grid training and modernization efforts. The timing reflects Tokyo’s recent step-up in activity vis-à-vis Central Asia. As previously reported by The Times of Central Asia, in late August 2025, Japan’s foreign minister undertook a multi-country tour that emphasized long-term engagement and connectivity across the region. Japanese officials framed their approach as trust-building, focused on people-to-people links, infrastructure, and practical cooperation. Energy cooperation is expected to feature prominently during the visit. Kyrgyz officials say the Japan-backed training center is moving through final approval, and modernization of the Kurpsai facility is planned with Japanese grant support. Bishkek has also invited Japanese participation in additional hydropower projects, positioning Japan as a technology and financing partner in Kyrgyzstan’s power sector. Labor mobility and skills are another focus. The authorities in Kyrgyzstan have been working with Japanese counterparts to create safe, legal pathways for Kyrgyz workers. In July, Kyrgyz officials met with Japan’s construction human-resources association to align training standards and prepare workers for job opportunities in Japan, and free Japanese-language courses were launched in Bishkek to improve employability for prospective migrants. Education and cultural exchange underpin the relationship. Over three decades, Japan has funded scholarships, exchanges, and language programs that connect Central Asian students to Japanese universities. An overview of these initiatives highlights how education has become a durable pillar of Japan’s regional engagement, building familiarity with Japanese business practices and technology among Kyrgyz graduates. For Bishkek, the visit is about turning ongoing cooperation into signed projects and new resources. Officials point to the grid training center and Kurpsai upgrades as near-term deliverables, while the broader agenda includes workforce programs and academic ties. The message from both sides is continuity: steady, practical steps rather than headline-grabbing announcements. Regionally, Japan’s approach offers Central Asian countries additional partners for finance, training, and technology. For Kyrgyzstan, deeper ties with Tokyo complement existing relationships while helping diversify investment sources and markets. The outcome to watch is whether the visit locks in concrete funding and timelines for priority energy and skills initiatives outlined by the Kyrgyz side.

Economic Cooperation

Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan Finalize $555 Million Investment and Trade Agreement

Kazakhstan’s Senate on September 4 ratified a bilateral agreement with Turkmenistan aimed at bolstering mutual investment and economic cooperation, Kazinform reported. The agreement, which sets out conditions for the promotion and protection of investments, is expected to create a more transparent and predictable environment for investors from both countries. Senator Amangeldy Nugmanov emphasized that the agreement provides comprehensive legal safeguards for investment across all sectors, from state-led initiatives to private enterprise. For the first time at the interstate level, Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan have formalized clear guarantees to protect investor interests. The agreement includes provisions for dispute resolution, including access to international arbitration, and ensures fair and equal treatment for foreign investments. Energy Sector as Strategic Priority Energy cooperation figures prominently in the agreement. Kazakhstan has expressed readiness to invest in the development of Turkmenistan’s gas condensate fields and to support the expansion of pipeline infrastructure. Nugmanov highlighted a separate agreement signed between Kazakhstan’s QazaqGaz and Turkmenistan’s state concern Turkmengaz, describing it as a “golden bridge” that will enhance both nations' economic prospects and contribute to regional energy security. Trade and Transport Ties Expand Senator Sergey Ershov noted that bilateral trade reached $555.7 million in 2024. Kazakh investors injected $16.1 million into Turkmenistan’s economy, while Kazakhstan received $400,000 in direct investment from Turkmenistan. Beyond energy, cooperation now includes rail, road, and maritime transport. Turkmenistan has also shown interest in modernizing armored vehicles and supplying spare parts to Kazakhstan. During a summit held in April, the presidents of both countries agreed to target $1 billion in annual trade turnover in the near future. They also underscored the strategic importance of expanding cooperation in energy and transport. Key projects under discussion include Kazakhstan’s potential participation in Turkmenistan’s Galkynysh gas field and the development of the Turgundi-Herat-Kandahar-Spin Boldak railway. The rail line, which would pass through Afghanistan, is seen as a means of diversifying trade routes and unlocking new regional markets.

Bilateral Relations

Uzbekistan and United States Leaders Discuss Expanding Strategic Partnership

According to the office of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the Uzbek and U.S. presidents held a telephone conversation on Friday, focusing on ways to deepen their countries’ strategic partnership across economic, security, and cultural fields. The details of the call were provided by the Uzbek president’s office. Strengthening Economic Ties The presidential office reported that both leaders emphasized opportunities to expand trade and investment. Bilateral trade grew by 15% in 2024, and the two sides signaled interest in building on that momentum. Prospective projects span civil aviation, mineral resources, energy, agriculture, digital technologies, finance, and education. Later this month, meetings are expected between Uzbek representatives and leading U.S. companies to explore long-term cooperation. Security and Regional Cooperation According to the statement, security issues also featured prominently in the conversation. The two presidents noted ongoing joint work against terrorism, extremism, and illegal migration. They also exchanged views on regional cooperation in Central Asia, highlighting the role of the “C5+1” dialogue format that brings together the United States and five Central Asian countries. Cultural and Humanitarian Exchanges The Uzbek president’s office noted that the discussion touched on expanding cultural and educational links. Branches of U.S. universities are operating in Tashkent, providing new opportunities for academic exchange. Looking ahead, the leaders noted with satisfaction that Uzbekistan’s national football team will participate for the first time in the 2026 World Cup, which the United States will be the main host of. A Growing Partnership Since Mirziyoyev assumed the presidency in 2016, Uzbekistan has pursued a more open foreign policy and a program of internal reforms aimed at modernizing the economy and improving governance. These changes have created new opportunities for cooperation with Washington. The United States, for its part, has supported regional initiatives through the C5+1 framework, while also seeking closer ties with Tashkent in areas such as counterterrorism, economic development, and education. American universities and companies have increased their presence in Uzbekistan, and cultural exchanges have expanded steadily in recent years. Next Steps The president’s office stated that President Mirziyoyev invited President Trump to pay an official visit to Uzbekistan. Both leaders agreed to maintain high-level contacts and continue advancing joint projects and programs. According to the Uzbek president’s office, the conversation was held in a constructive and friendly atmosphere, underscoring a shared interest in further strengthening Uzbek-American relations.

Energy

Chinese Firm to Build Kazakhstan’s First Waste-to-Energy Plant in Almaty

Kazakhstan has taken a major step toward modernizing its waste management infrastructure with the signing of a landmark investment agreement with China’s Hunan Junxin Environmental Protection Co. Ltd. On August 29, the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources announced that the company will build the country’s first waste-to-energy plant in Almaty. The facility will be capable of incinerating at least 1,600 tons of solid municipal waste per day, generating 60 megawatts of electricity. The total investment in the project is estimated at 145 billion tenge (approximately $269 million). The plant will utilize advanced waste-to-energy technology that complies with European Union emission standards. It will also be equipped with an automated system for continuous environmental monitoring. The project is expected to create around 700 jobs during construction and at least 120 permanent positions upon completion. Hunan Junxin Environmental Protection has previously announced plans to invest up to $600 million in three waste-to-energy facilities across Kazakhstan. Regional Expansion and Experience The company is already active in neighboring Kyrgyzstan. In June, it began construction of a $95 million solid waste incineration facility in Osh, Kyrgyzstan’s second-largest city. That facility will generate both electricity and heat from municipal waste. In Bishkek, Hunan Junxin is constructing a solid waste recycling facility at the city’s main landfill. The plant is initially expected to process 1,000 tons of waste per day, with capacity slated to increase to 3,000 tons by the time of its projected completion in December 2025. In China, the company reported recycling 3.2 million tons of municipal waste in 2024, generating over 1.47 billion kWh of electricity.

Coal

Kazakhstan’s Vast Coal Reserves Could Fuel Energy Needs for Centuries

Kazakhstan’s coal reserves are expected to last between 200 and 300 years, depending on the rate of extraction, according to an analytical study by the Caspian Commodity Exchange. The study notes that Kazakhstan ranks among the world’s top ten countries for proven coal reserves, estimated at 25 to 33 billion tons, and eighth in terms of production. In 2023, the country produced 112.7 million tons of coal, followed by 109.8 million tons in 2024. Exports for those years totaled 31.9 million tons and 29.5 million tons, respectively. At current production rates, reserves could last for 300 years; if output increases, they would last at least 200 years. About 25 companies operate in Kazakhstan’s coal sector, with 75% of production concentrated among four major players: Bogatyr Komir LLP (about 40% of the market), Euro-Asian Energy Corporation (EEC), Shubarkol Komir JSC, and Qarmet (formerly ArcelorMittal Temirtau JSC). Domestic consumption accounts for 72% of coal use, with the remainder exported, mainly to Russia, which takes about two-thirds of supplies. In 2023, Kazakhstan ranked among the top five coal suppliers to the EU, holding an 8.7% market share, according to the European Commission. The power sector is the largest domestic consumer, using 59% of coal, followed by households (8%) and industry (5%). Coal makes up roughly 50% of the country’s primary energy consumption. In 2023, thermal power plants generated 77.4% of Kazakhstan’s electricity, with coal-fired plants providing 66% of that output. Coal is also the primary source of heat, covering 80% of demand. In Astana, coal-fired combined heat and power plants (CHPs) account for 97% of heat generation, while in Almaty the figure is 56%. Coal combustion is responsible for about 70% of Kazakhstan’s greenhouse gas emissions, creating a challenge for the government’s target of achieving carbon neutrality by 2060. Nonetheless, analysts forecast that coal will remain a key energy source in the medium term, accounting for 46% of the energy balance in 2035, down from 66% in 2023. Coal-based power generation is expected to decline by just 9% over that period. Long-term projections point to a more significant decline in coal’s share, driven by the expansion of renewable energy, which is forecast to account for 24.4% of electricity generation by 2035 and 50% by 2050. Another factor will be the commissioning of Kazakhstan’s first nuclear power plant, construction of which began last week, which will partially replace coal generation in the domestic market.

Energy

Kyrgyzstan Secures €9 Million in EIB Funding for CASA-1000 Energy Project

The Kyrgyz Ministry of Finance has approved the signing of a €9 million financing agreement with the European Investment Bank (EIB) to support the ongoing implementation of the CASA-1000 regional energy project. Under the terms of the agreement, the EIB will provide the Kyrgyz government with a 29-year loan, including an eight-year grace period, at an interest rate of 3.6% per annum. The funds will be used to complete infrastructure work under CASA-1000, a cross-border initiative aimed at exporting surplus summer electricity from Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan to Afghanistan and Pakistan. According to the Ministry of Finance, the funds will be re-lent to the state-owned National Electric Grid of Kyrgyzstan (NEGK), the country's main electricity transmission operator and the contractor responsible for CASA-1000 infrastructure in Kyrgyzstan. Officials stated that the loan will not place additional pressure on the state budget. Repayment will be made through revenue generated by NEGK from electricity exports to South Asia. In line with the Kyrgyz Constitution, the agreement requires parliamentary approval by the Jogorku Kenesh before the funds can be disbursed to a dedicated Ministry of Finance account. The CASA-1000 project is now in an advanced stage of implementation. Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov and Tajik President Emomali Rahmon recently attended the inauguration of the 480-kilometer Datka-Sughd high-voltage transmission line, which connects the two countries’ power systems. This event marked the completion of all CASA-1000 infrastructure in Kyrgyzstan. Construction continues in southern Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. The full CASA-1000 corridor spans four countries, with a total transmission line length of 1,400 kilometers and an estimated total cost of $1.1 billion. Initial electricity deliveries to Afghanistan and Pakistan are scheduled for 2027.