Askar Sydykov, head of the International Business Council (IBC), spoke at the CAREC business forum taking place in Bishkek. He noted that Kyrgyzstan should actively leverage the growing interest in Central Asia to attract investments, particularly within the framework of the initiative to create a "Central Asian Regional Logistics Hub." Sydykov emphasized that the current situation presents unique opportunities that must be wisely utilized.
According to him, given the lack of access to the sea, Kyrgyzstan must prioritize the development of transport corridors, which is critically important for a country with its geographical position.
"For our country, it is important to develop transport routes both towards Europe and with East and Southeast Asia," added Sydykov.
He also highlighted the significance of the Central Asian Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC) program, which for nearly 25 years (since 2001) has been facilitating the attraction of funding for various projects, including logistics, digitalization, and energy.
Sydykov noted that the global community's interest in Central Asia continues to grow. "The region is becoming increasingly attractive to countries both far and near. Kyrgyzstan must take advantage of this situation to attract investments and develop transport corridors as quickly as possible. This will provide our goods with a more accessible and quality entry into markets, which in turn will contribute to economic growth," he said.
Geographically, Kyrgyzstan is located in the center of Central Asia and borders most countries in the region, including China. However, the successful implementation of projects depends on government actions: how quickly initiatives are developed and implemented, as well as how effectively the country's potential is utilized.
"If active measures are not taken, opportunities may be missed, and initiatives may be seized by other states. Interest in Central Asia exists, but it will not be eternal. It is important to take advantage of this 'window of opportunity' at the right moment," concluded Askar Sydykov.
