The cooperation between the Ministry of Economy and Commerce of the Kyrgyz Republic and UNDP in the country began with the development of a unique master planning methodology, which will be the first of its kind. This initiative is being implemented with the support of the project "Knowledge Management and Capacity Building within the Partnership between Russia and UNDP" (Phase III).
The development of the methodology aims to implement the Program of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic, which covers the creation and development of growth poles for the period from 2025 to 2030. The methodology will define a standardized approach to the formation of master plans.
A master plan is a strategic document that serves as the foundation for territorial development and forms a long-term vision for the growth pole. It allows for the transformation of general goals, such as improving the quality of life, developing the economy, and reducing environmental risks, into specific and measurable indicators, such as the number of places in educational institutions, accessibility of public spaces, and the level of air pollution by fine particulate matter PM2.5.
Choro Seiytov, the First Deputy Minister of Economy and Commerce of the Kyrgyz Republic, emphasized the importance of creating a unified methodology for the systematic development of regions. "We are developing a tool that will help each city and region build its future based on accurate data, citizen engagement, and clear guidelines for sustainable growth," he noted.
The master plan will provide a comprehensive view of the future development of both the city itself and its surroundings. Local authorities, businesses, NGOs, residents, experts, and government structures play a crucial role in this process. The development will be conducted openly and inclusively, taking into account the opinions of all stakeholders from the very beginning. After the master plan is approved, its implementation will be transparent and trackable for investors, citizens, and development institutions.
Alexandra Solovyova, the UNDP Resident Representative in Kyrgyzstan, noted that master planning is an international practice that contributes to enhancing the resilience and competitiveness of territories. "We are pleased to support the Kyrgyz Republic in creating the first national methodology that will help shape livable, environmentally friendly, and equitable cities and communities," she added.
An important part of the master plans will be the mandatory georeferencing of data, which will allow for the inclusion of extensive cartographic materials visualizing planned changes, infrastructure transformations, and priority areas for development.
One of the main outcomes of master planning will be comprehensive projects for territorial development that coordinate economic priorities, transport flows, social infrastructure needs, housing and communal systems, and environmental requirements.
The creation of master plans will be a significant step towards ensuring open, balanced, and predictable development of cities and rural areas in Kyrgyzstan, laying a solid foundation for sustainable growth and improving the quality of life for the population.
