Representatives from business, government institutions, international organizations, and diplomatic missions gathered for the anniversary event. The evening's program included memories of the IBC's history and achievements, as well as an award ceremony for the association's members and partners.
The Executive Director of the IBC, Askar Sydykov, expressed gratitude to the participants for their cooperation and contribution to the country's economic development: "We receive daily words of appreciation from entrepreneurs and citizens whom our efforts have helped. It is an honor for us to represent the business of Kyrgyzstan both within the country and beyond, and we will continue this important mission."
Congratulations on behalf of the Cabinet of Ministers were sent by the Chairman of the Cabinet and Head of the President's Administration of the Kyrgyz Republic, Adylbek Kasymaliev, via a video message.
"IBC members contribute over 20% of tax revenues to the budget of Kyrgyzstan, which is a significant contribution to economic development. I am confident that cooperation between the IBC and government bodies will only strengthen, allowing us to work together to improve conditions for business," he noted, wishing the association further success.
Today, the IBC unites more than 150 members from 20 different sectors of the economy, both local and international. The association comprises 8 industry committees covering areas such as mineral resources, financial markets, fiscal policy, human resource management, intellectual property, tourism, construction and real estate, as well as an ESG committee.
Askar Sydykov reported that in recent years, the association has successfully addressed numerous issues of interest to the business community, achieving a cumulative financial and economic effect of at least 472 million US dollars over six years of operation.
The Chairman of the IBC, Tanvir Aftab, who is also the founder of Kant TSHB LLC, shared how the association promotes integration and business development in Kyrgyzstan.
"When someone approaches me with the intention of starting a business in Kyrgyzstan, I recommend they meet with the IBC leadership. I am proud that the government consults us before passing laws related to business and investments," noted Tanvir Aftab.
In the early 2000s, Kyrgyzstan was in the process of transitioning to a market economy, and the International Business Council was established to provide a platform for dialogue between the state and the private sector, experience sharing, and building trustful relationships.
Fernand Piyone, former Chairman of the IBC and ex-head of the EBRD in Kyrgyzstan, recalled how it all began: "I arrived in the country in March 2000 and immediately met with business representatives. At that time, there were few international companies, and we joined forces with the German ambassador Klaus Achenbach to create an international business club."
According to him, the history of the IBC reflects the development of state-private dialogue in Kyrgyzstan, and over the years, the association has become an important player in the country's development. "Today, it is extremely important for the business community to remain active and collaborate to improve the business environment and investment climate. Our association will continue its work and contribute to improving the lives of the people of Kyrgyzstan," concluded Askar Sydykov.
