On November 26, 2025, the Third Economic Forum "European Union - Central Asia" took place in Tashkent. The event gathered representatives from governments, businesses, and international organizations to discuss key areas of economic cooperation between the countries of the region and the EU.
According to the Ministry of Economy of the Kyrgyz Republic, the delegation was headed by Deputy Prime Minister Bakyt Torobaev. In his address, he emphasized the importance of developing interregional partnerships and continuing joint work in areas such as the economy, green energy, transport, and subsoil use.
During the first plenary session titled "Promoting Prosperity," the Deputy Minister of Economy and Commerce of the Kyrgyz Republic, Iskender Asylkulov, presented the country's experience in implementing an electronic queue management system for freight transport at border points.
He noted that Kyrgyzstan is actively working on creating a transparent and service-oriented customs administration system. "The launch of the electronic queue at border points has already demonstrated its effectiveness — it has minimized truck congestion and ensured orderly movement through pre-registration and strict queuing. This has transformed the border crossing process from chaotic to predictable," he added.
At the round table dedicated to regional cooperation, the Deputy Minister highlighted the strategic importance of digitizing trade processes.
"Kyrgyzstan views the digitization and simplification of trade procedures as important tools for enhancing the competitiveness and connectivity of the region. Our country is actively promoting paperless trade and strengthening cooperation in the region, as evidenced by Kyrgyzstan's re-election as chair of the UN ESCAP Paperless Trade Council and the launch of several initiatives in Central Asia. The implementation of projects for electronic data exchange and trade documents creates a foundation for more efficient and secure trade processes. Kyrgyzstan is ready to continue actively participating in shaping a modern digital environment in the region," he noted.
As part of the forum, a meeting also took place between I. Asylkulov and the Vice President of the European Investment Bank, Marek Mora, organized by the Trade Representation of the Kyrgyz Republic at the Ministry of Economy and Commerce with the support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The parties discussed prospective investment projects in Kyrgyzstan. The European Investment Bank expressed interest in expanding cooperation and announced plans to send a delegation to Kyrgyzstan in January 2026 for a more detailed study of projects and agreement on steps for their implementation.
Kyrgyzstan's participation in the forum confirmed its intention to deepen economic cooperation with the European Union, promote digital solutions in trade, and strengthen investment ties.
