Section 5. Key water developments in the countries of Central Asia
5.2. Kyrgyz Republic
Water sector
Water resources. The total available water resources in the republic amount to 2,458 km3, including 650 km3 (26.4%) in glaciers (8000 km2), 1,745 km3 (71%) in lakes, 13 km3 (0.5%) as potentially usable groundwater and mineral thermal water, and 44.5 to 51.9 km3 (2%) as average annual river runoff. The total annual volume of renewable water resources in Kyrgyzstan is 46.5 km3.
The Republic has over 3,500 watercourses and 1923 lakes. 44 groundwater aquifers with fresh and mineral waters are available here. The average long-term river runoff is 44.5 km3 and reaches 47.2 km3 with return water included.
2024 Results. As of October 3, 2024, the planned irrigation water supply was 6,286.7 million cubic meters. The actual supply reached 5,640.6 million cubic meters, representing 90% of the plan and exceeding the 2023 supply by 501.1 million cubic meters. The total planned area for autumn-winter and pre-plowing irrigation covered 311.36 thousand hectares, of which 85.1 thousand hectares had been irrigated by September 30, 2024.
Public administration reforms. The Kyrgyz Research Institute of Irrigation, the Department of Drinking Water Supply and Sanitaiton Development renamed into the State Institution for Drinking Water Supply and Sanitation Development, and the SE “Hydrological Field Office” spun off the SE “Kyrgyzgeologiya” were included in the structure of the Water Resources Service (WRS) (RCM KR No. 98 of 07.03.24).
New appointments. Almazbek Sokeev was appointed as the Director of the WRS at the Ministry of Agriculture, Water Resources and Processing Industry of the Kyrgyz Republic (MAWRPI KR).
Latest developments in legislation. The following regulations were approved: on MAWRPI KR, on WRS, on the Kyrgyz Research Institute of Irrigation, on the State Institution for Drinking Water Supply and Sanitation Development (RKM KR No. 98 of 07.03.24).
The Kyrgyz Government adopted resolution No. 207 of 29.04.2024 “On the efficient management and development of the water sector” , which (1) delegated the authority to approve tariffs for irrigation water supply from the public water supply systems, drinking water supply and sanitation in towns and cities to an authorized public water agency; (2) made amendments to resolution No. 115 of 03.03.2023 “On the delegation of certain rule-making powers of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic to public authorities and local executive bodies”, etc.
The Jogorku Kenesh Committee on International Affairs adopted the draft Water Code.
Water management system. The WRS departments completed: (1) repair, concreting and mechanical cleaning of inter-farm canals (626 km); (2) repair of 596 hydraulic structures, 250 gauging stations, 115 pumping stations and 221 agregates; (3) replacement of 30 pumping agregates; (4) cleaning of 11 storage facilities, 150 km of CDS.
The construction of: (1) irrigation canal in Ak-Tal; (2) daily regulation pond in Kadamzhay district is underway. Works for construction of Jany-Talaa canal in Kara-Kulja district have been resumed; works for rehabilitation of Ara-Bel intake dam in Jeti-Oguz district of Issyk-Kul province are in progress.
Projects and programs. The National Water Resources Management Project/AF NWRMP (SDC, WB, $12.24 million, 2015-2024) has been completed. Within its framework, the National Water Strategy of the Kyrgyz Republic until 2040 was developed and approved; assistance was rendered to establish the boundaries of 5 river basins and prepare 5 basin water management plans .
Ongoing projects: (1) “Climate change and disaster-resilient water resources sector” (ADB, $43.6 million, 2019-2025); (2) “Climate-Resilient Water Services/CRWSP” (IDA, $100 million, 2022–2028, Batkent, Zhalal-Abad and Osh provinces), as part of which basic training on the Unified Water Information System for WRS officials (Bishkek, May 23-24; Osh, May 30-31) and the contract management training (Osh, June 26-28; Bishkek, July 4-5) were organized and the WB mission took place (May 27–June 7); (3) USAID Regional Water and Vulnerable Environment Activity (USAID, $21.5 million, August 2022 - July 2025) organized the celebration of the World Water Day 2024 “Water for Peace” (March 11); the roundtable to discuss the water management issues in the region (March 12); international scientific and practical conference - IV Mamatkanov Readings (October 28); (4) Climate-sensitive Water Resources Management in Central Asia (BMZ, SDC, GIZ, €12.9 million, 2023-2027) conducted the cross-border trainings (Chu and Talas CWA, Bishkek, October 22; Osh CWA, Batken CWA, Naryn CWA, Jalalabad BWA, Karadarya-Syrdarya-Amudarya BWA; representatives of water sector of Uzbekistan, Osh, October 24); (5) Enhancing economic independence and improving the situation of women in Central Asia through access to irrigation water and infrastructure (Coca-Cola Foundation, $500,000, 2023-2024) – in Kara-Zhygach aiyl aimak of Alamudun district, Chuy province, rehabilitation works on the canal “P-21” were completed and drip irrigation was installed on 1 ha (pilot WUA “Ta-Bek”); training for farmers was held (June 30, December 20); (6) Irrigated agriculture development in Issyk-Kul and Naryn provinces (IsDB, Saudi Fund for Development, $50 million).
March 12, Bishkek, Source
October 22, Bishkek Source
A PRC-funded project to improve water infrastructure in the Kyrgyz Republic (152 million yuan) has been initiated.
Loan and grant agreements for the Kyrgyz Water Resilience Framework were ratified between the KR and the EBRD; the WRS and the SDC discussed preparation of an agreement for launching the Water Use Permits in Kyrgyzstan Project, the goal of which is to improve the water use regulation by using the French experience in basin water management.
Events. (1) A roundtable for presentation and discussion of the Water and Associated Sector Education Program (March 13); (2) an event on the importance of water for life (March 28); (3) a conference “National Water Resources of the Kyrgyz Republic” (April 1); (4) National Water Forum “Rational water use in the Kyrgyz Republic in the context of climate change and preservation of Issyk-Kul Lake” (November 29). The WRS representatives also took part in the roundtable on climate challenges organized by the OSCE Academy (July 10) and in other events.
Regional and international cooperation. The Kyrgyz delegation participated in the first Hungarian-Kyrgyz Water Forum (Bishkek, May 14) and the 3rd High-Level International Conference on the International Decade for Action “Water for Sustainable Development”, 2018-2028 (June 10-13).
Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan agreed on sharing water of the Chu and Talas rivers at the 33rd (Bishkek, April 26) and 34th meetings of the CTWC (Cholpon-Ata, July 27). For more details, see “Cooperation between the Countries of Central Asia on Water and Other Matters”.
The Kyrgyz delegation attended the 86th ICWC meeting (Shymkent, Kazakhstan, April 12). For more details, see “IFAS and Other Regional Organizations in Central Asia”.
Drinking Water Supply
Latest developments in legislation. The procedure for setting tariffs for centralized drinking water supply and sanitation services has been approved (PKM KR No. 320 of 19.06.2024).
Projects and programs. Ongoing projects: (1) CRWSP (see above), sub-component 1.1 “Water Supply and Sanitation Infrastructure” includes investments aimed at enhancing climate resilience, improving drinking water supply and sanitation services, and increasing wastewater treatment capacity; (2) “Bishkek Water Supply and Wastewater Rehabilitation” (Phase II, Swiss Government, EBRD, €16 million) - 4.9 km of sewerage and 2.6 km of water supply networks were constructed in the south of Bishkek, 4 vehicles and 108 units of equipment were procured; (3) “Uzgen Water Supply and Wastewater Rehabilitation” (EBRD) - over 38 km of drinking water supply and over 24.7 km of sewer pipelines were laid; construction work on treatment facilities are underway; (4) “Issyk-Kul Wastewater Management”/IWMP in Karakol and Balykchy (ADB) - training on “Gender Equality and Integration in Water Resources Management” (November 27) and the meeting with active civil society in Balykchy were conducted (December 6); (5) “Naryn Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Development”/NRWSSDP (ADB, $32.9 million, 2020-2027) - training for trainers and local-level trainings were conducted with the participation of staff from educational institutions and volunteers of pilot communities (Naryn, Kochkor village, November 26 - December 18); (6) “Sustainable Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Development”/SRWSSDP (WB, IDA, $59.5 million, second additional financing – $7.64 million, 2017-2025, Chuy, Issyk-Kul and Osh provinces) – the water supply system has been launched (Chuy province, March 3); the Law on Ratification of the Financing Agreement between the KR and IDA for the Second Additional Financing of the SRWSSDP was signed.
In Batken province, (1) construction of a water supply system is underway to provide drinking water to 8,357 residents of the Kyrgyz-Kyshtak and Umai-Ene villages in the Kadamjay District, and (2) a project to improve drinking water supply in 28 villages has been launched (WB, $48 million, 2024-2028).
Kadamjay district, Source
Preparatory work is underway to launch a new 'Water Supply and Sanitation Universal Access Program' aimed at expanding access to clean water and sanitation services, enhancing their sustainability, and improving service delivery capacity in remote villages..
Agriculture
2024 Results. In 2024, GDP reached 17.2 billion KGS, marking a 9% increase compared to 2023. The share of agricultural products in GDP amounted to 9.5%, with a total value of 115.9 billion KGS—reflecting a 6.2% growth. Gross agricultural output totaled 395.6 billion KGS, with a real growth rate of 106.3%. This growth was driven by increased production in both crop farming (up 10.3%) and livestock breeding (up 3.1%). The largest contributions to agricultural output came from crop production (50.9%) and livestock breeding (45.4%). Chuy Province led in agricultural output, accounting for 24.8% of the total production.
In 2024, the total crop acreage reached 1,236 thousand hectares, an increase of 4 thousand hectares compared to 2023. The harvested area also expanded: wheat was harvested from 240.5 thousand hectares (+37.8 thousand hectares compared to 2023), barley from 245.9 thousand hectares (+44.6 thousand hectares), and legumes from 53 thousand hectares.
A total of 752 agricultural cooperatives continued operating across the Kyrgyz Republic in the agricultural sector.
Public administration reforms. In line with the Decree of the Cabinet of Ministers No. 98 of 07.03.2024, the following institutions were renamed: (1) Department of Crop Expertise at the Kyrgyz Ministry of Agriculture into the Department of Crop Expertise and Horticulture under the MAWRPI KR; (2) Department of Organic Agriculture at the Ministry of Agriculture into the Department of Processing Industry and Organic Agriculture under the MAWRPI KR; (3) Department of Mechanization, Innovative Technologies and Cooperation in Agriculture at the Ministry of Agriculture into the Department of Cooperation, Mechanization and Innovative Technologies in Agriculture under the MAWRPI KR.
New appointments. Janybek Kerimaliev was appointed as the First Deputy Minister of Water Resources, Agriculture and Processing Industry of the KR.
Latest developments in legislation. On 22 July 2024, the President of Kyrgyzstan signed Presidential Decree No. 202 “On Measures for Further Development of the Agro‑Industrial Complex of the Kyrgyz Republic.” The decree aims to strengthen food security, increase exports of agro‑industrial products, foster the adoption of innovative technologies, and create jobs in rural areas.
In addition, the Government approved Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers No. 462 of 9 August 2024, which adopts the “Pasture Development Program for 2024–2029.” The program is intended to enhance pasture management and utilization, restore pasture infrastructure, and adapt rangelands to the challenges of climate change.
The following regulations were approved: (1) on the Department of Crop Expertise and Horticulture; (2) on the Department of Processing Industry and Organic Agriculture; (3) on the Department of Cooperation, Mechanization and Innovative Technologies in Agriculture; (4) on the Department of Fisheries Complex; (5) on the Department of Chemicalization, Plant Protection and Quarantine; (6) on the Kyrgyz Farming Research Institute; (7) on the Kyrgyz Research Institute of Livestock and Pastures; (8) on the State Institution “AgroSmart”; (9) on the State Institution “Center for Veterinary Medicines and Feed Additives”; (10) on the State Institution “Center for Veterinary Diagnostics and Expertise” (RKM KR No. 98 of 07.03.2024).
Projects and programs. In line with Presidential Decree No. 202 of 22.07.2024, efforts are underway to renew, upgrade, and equip the Machine and Tractor Station (MTS) fleet with modern agricultural machinery. In Issyk-Ata District, the active use of agricultural drones and UAVs has been initiated for fertilizer application and crop protection against pests.
A total of 12,083 loans amounting to 4,850,809 thousand KGS were issued under the “Financing Agriculture – 12” project. A pilot initiative titled “3+2” was launched to further support farmers. For the first time, the Ministry of Agriculture, Water Resources and Processing Industry of the Kyrgyz Republic (MAWRPI KR) signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with the Association for Agro-Industrial Complex Development, aimed at supporting 11 industry-specific associations.
The following projects were continued: (1) “Kyrgyzstan Pasture and Natural Resource Management” (US Forest Service, 2021-2025, Naryn, At-Bashy districts, Jergetal aiyl aimak, Naryn province); (2) “Additional Financing for the Third Village Investment Project (VIP-3 AF)” (IDA, $17 million, 2022-2024, Chuy province), the goal of which is to build local capacity for participatory development and improve access to quality social infrastructure services in targeted rural communities.
Within the project “Active Women’s Civil Society Organizations for Peace in Kyrgyzstan” (FAO, 2023-2024), women farmers from Batken and Leylek districts shared their experience, knowledge and skills in sustainable agriculture in the context of climate change (October 28).
October 28, agricultural cooperative “Klubmalina” in Jany-Jer village,
Darin aiyl aimak, Batken province
Source
The Kyrgyz Government adopted the Law on ratification of the Financing Agreement between KR and IDA and the Grant Agreement between KR and IDA for the “Resilient Agri-food Clusters Development” project signed on April 16, 2024 in Washington.
To conserve water without relying on reservoirs or incurring additional costs, an artificial glacier was constructed on the Bai-Katyn pasture in Kadamjay District, Batken Province.
On December 26, the Ministry of Agriculture, Water Resources and Processing Industry of the Kyrgyz Republic (MAWRPI KR) conducted a training seminar for agricultural experts and farmers in Chuy Province. In addition, Farmer Service Centers were opened in Talas and Naryn provinces. These centers aim to provide high-quality services to local farmers and support agricultural development of regions.
Events. Bishkek hosted the following events: (1) “2024 Agro Dialogue” Forum (February 26-28); (2) celebration of the Day of Agricultural Workers (October 18); (3) AgroTechExpo-2024 and Altyn Kyz fair (October 18-20).
Regional and international cooperation. Meetings were held: between exporters and importers from Kyrgyzstan and importers and their counterparts from Pakistan (April 1); with a delegation from the People’s Republic of China to discuss cooperation and ways to boost agricultural productivity (December 2). The latter resulted in agreements on the transportation of agricultural goods from Bishkek to Shanghai (July 23).
During his official visits to Uzbekistan and the Republic of Korea, the President of the Kyrgyz Republic signed the following documents: (1) a “Road Map” for cooperation in agriculture and food supply for 2024–2026 with the Ministry of Agriculture of Uzbekistan (July 18); (2) a protocol of negotiations with KOICA on the project “Strengthening the value chain of agricultural products by supporting the establishment of a post-harvest management system in the Kyrgyz Republic” .
Following the 12th meeting of the Kazakh-Kyrgyz Intergovernmental Council, a Road Map was signed with Kazakhstan on increasing mutual agricultural trade for 2024–2025 (Bishkek, December 4).
Energy
Power generation and consumption. In 2024, electricity generation in Kyrgyzstan reached 12.8 billion kWh from hydropower plants (HPPs), 1.8 billion kWh from combined heat and power plants (CHPPs), and 250 million kWh from small HPPs. In December alone, power consumption across the republic exceeded the set limit by 123.4 million kWh (7.3%), totaling 1,806.6 million kWh.
During the first 11 months of 2024, Kyrgyzstan imported 4.6 billion kWh of electricity—1.5 times more than in the same period of 2023. Of this volume, 1.2 billion kWh was supplied by Kazakhstan’s power plants operating on renewable energy sources (RES).
New appointments. Salavat Sadyrakunov was appointed the General Director of “Electric Power Plants” JSC, and Nurlan Sadykov was appointed the Deputy Minister of Energy of Kyrgyzstan.
Latest developments in legislation. Amendments were made in the Law on Energy Saving (No. 201 of 10.12.2024). The Kyrgyz Government adopted the following Resolutions: (1) No. 345 of 02.07.2024 “On reorganization of the state enterprise “Kyrgyzteploenergo” under the Ministry of Energy of the Kyrgyz Republic”; (2) No. 351 of 03.07.2024 “On Amendments to the Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic No. 247 of November 15, 2021 “Regarding the Ministry of Energy of the Kyrgyz Republic””; (3) No. 556 of 12.09.2024 “On Amendments to decisions of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic regarding the activities of the Green Energy Fund under the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic”. Additionally, the Provisions on the Energy Research Institute under the Ministry of Energy of the KR and on the Kyrgyz State Research and Design Institute “Energoproekt” were approved (PCM No. 488 of 22.08.2024).
HPP construction and modernization. At “Electric Power Plants” JSC: (1) following reconstruction, hydro unit No. 4 of the Uch-Kurgan HPP was commissioned, resulting in a 20% increase in the plant’s capacity; (2) the repair of the metal lining at the bottom of the service spillway was completed at the At-Bashi HPP; (3) reconstruction works on hydro unit No. 1 of the Toktogul HPP were nearly finalized.
Uch-Kurgan HPP, Source
Negotiations with the World Bank were held on May 26 regarding the project “Additional Financing for the Technical Support of Kambarata HPP-1.” The Energy Ministries of Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan signed an interdepartmental agreement on cooperation within the framework of the Kambarata HPP-1 project. The Donor Coordination Committee for the construction of the HPP was established (Vienna, June 11), and its delegation visited the Kambarata site from October 7 to 11 to inspect progress on project preparation. Additionally, the first round of national consultations for the environmental and social assessment of the project was completed in Bishkek (November 20).
Alternative energy
A total of 148 renewable energy facilities (each with a capacity exceeding 100 kW) have been commissioned and are currently operational across the country. Their combined installed capacity reaches 2,903.7 MW, including: 59 wind power plants with a total capacity of 1,409.55 MW; 46 solar power plants totaling 1,222.61 MW; 40 small hydropower plants with a combined capacity of 269.785 MW; 3 biogas power plants with a total capacity of 1.77 MW.
Latest developments in legislation. The Kyrgyz Government adopted the Law No. 164 of 13.09.2024 “On Amendments to the Law of the Kyrgyz Republic on renewable energy sources”.
Small HPPs. By the end of the year, OJSC “Chakan HPP,” which operates nine small hydropower plants, generated 183.4 million kWh—exceeding its 2024 target of 178.2 million kWh and up from 133.3 million kWh in 2023. The Alamedin HPP cascade (comprising eight small HPPs with a total capacity of 29.8 MW) contributed the majority of the total output. Additional energy was generated by the Bystrovskaya SHPP (8.7 MW), Bala-Saruu SHPP (25 MW), and FES BSR SHPP-5 (0.1 MW).
New small hydropower plants commissioned during the year include: Bala-Saruu SHPP in Talas Province (May 21); Kok-Art SHPP in Jalal-Abad Province (July 22); Isfairam SHPP in Kadamjay District, Batken Province, and Kurak-Tektir SHPP in Nookat District, Osh Province (both on August 20).
Bala-Saruu SHPP on the Kirov reservoir, Source
The Kyrgyz Ministry of Energy and the Korea Water Resources Corporation (K-Water) signed a Memorandum of Cooperation aimed at jointly preparing and developing a master plan, as well as conducting feasibility studies for ten new small hydropower projects. This partnership is part of an international initiative to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (December 3).
Solar energy. A floating solar power plant was commissioned at the TPP-5 reservoir operated by OJSC “Chakan HPP.” Additionally, a pilot project supported by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) is underway for the construction of another floating solar power plant in the HPP-5 reservoir area.
Agreements were signed between (1) EDB and the Bishkek Solar LLC on the solar project up to 300 MW in Toru-Aigyr village of Issyk-Kul province (Bishkek, May 21); (2) the Kyrgyz Republic and IFC on implementation of two solae projects (Vienna, June 10).
Fortis KG LLP, NES Kyrgyzstan OJSC, and the Green Energy Fund signed an investment agreement for the construction of a 400 MW SPP at the Kara-Talaa site in Issyk-Kul Province. The German company W. Hass Future GmbH & Co. has also expressed its willingness to invest up to €300 million in solar power development in Kyrgyzstan.
Wind energy. Agreements were signed between: (1) the ADB and the KR on consulting support of a PPP project for wind power (Bishkek, October 16-17); (2) the Rosatom Renewable Energy JSC and the Kyrgyz Cabinet of Ministers for an export project on wind power with a capacity of 100 MW (December 24).
As part of the USAID Power Central Asia Activity (PCA), a map of the solar and wind energy potential was developed. Additionally, LiDAR equipment was installed to collect essential data for the accurate and cost-effective design of wind power plants.
USAID has also launched a five-year, $24 million program titled “Green Solutions” aimed at supporting small and medium-size enterprises in the Kyrgyz Republic. The program focuses on promoting innovative green technologies, improving energy efficiency, and increasing renewable energy.
Events. The Kyrgyz Cabinet of Ministers, with support of the World Bank Group and assistance from the Government of Austria, organized the International Energy Investment Forum—a platform for discussing energy development prospects in Central Asia. During the Forum, the Cabinet of Ministers presented 12 investment hydropower and solar projects, with a total estimated value of $16 billion. As part of the Forum, a series of agreements were signed (Vienna, June 10-11).
June 10-11, Source
The President of the Kyrgyz Republic delivered a speech at the Sixth Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia, where he proposed the implementation of an economic mechanism for water-energy cooperation in the region (Astana, August 9).
The Energy Day celebration, marking the 90th anniversary of the Kyrgyz Republic's energy system, was held on December 20.
The Minister of Energy participated in the following international events: (1) the 9th meeting of the Council of Heads of Authorized Energy Bodies of the EAEU Member States (Moscow, March 29); (2) the “Gulf Cooperation Council + Central Asia” Forum (Riyadh, May 29); (3) COP29 and the Meeting of Ministers on Energy Initiatives (Baku, November 11-22).
Regional and international cooperation. The Ministry of Energy signed: (1) MoU on energy cooperation with the Azerbaijani Ministry of Energy (April 25); (2) statement on joint energy projects with the IsDB (June 6); (3) Memorandum to deepen cooperation with the FAS Energy Company (August 27); (4) MoC with the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry of Japan (September 9); (5) Vienna Communique with the EIB on “Unlocking Investment Potential for a Green Future for the KR and Central Asia” (December 6).
On the sidelines of СОР29, the Ministry of Energy signed: (1) Clean Energy Charter with OECD; (2) Agreement with GIZ on the “Renewable Energy Sources in Central Asia” project; (3) Cooperation roadmap with the Ministry of Energy of Azerbaijan.
Environment Protection and Climate Change
New appointments. Meder Mashiev was appointed the Minister of Natural Resources, Ecology and Technical Supervision. Narynbek Satybaldiev was appointed the Deputy Minister of Natural Resources, Ecology and Technical Supervision and Director of Kyrgyz Geological Service.
Latest development in legislation. The following laws were adopted: (1) Law No. 35 of 07.02.2024 “On Amendments to the Forest Code of the Kyrgyz Republic” that strengthens the conservation of forests and protected natural territories. The sustainable landscape restoration and climate change adaptation project has been launched; (2) Law No. 95 of 13.06.2024 “On Amendments to Certain Legislative Acts of the Kyrgyz Republic in the field of regulation of protected natural territories”, particularly to the Land Code of the KR, the Law on Environmental Protection, the Law on Protected Natural territories, the Law on Hunting and Hunting Sector; (3) Law No. 99 of 14.06.2024 “On Amendments to the Law of the KR on Protection of Atmospheric Air”.
A draft of the “Green Economy Development Program until 2028” has been prepared. The program aims to improve Kyrgyzstan’s ranking in the SDG Index by at least 15 points by reducing negative environmental impacts and creating favorable conditions for the transition to an innovative and green economy.
Projects. The following projects are ongoing: (1) “Advancing the process of developing a National Adaptation Plan for medium and long-term planning and implementation of adaptation measures to climate change in the Kyrgyz Republic” (GCF, UNDP) - several events were conducted: workshop “Integration of gender aspects into adaptation planning to climate change” (February 26); round table on interim results (May 31); expanded meeting of the interdepartmental working group on climate change (October 17); (2) “Improvement of environmental monitoring and reclamation tools in the Kyrgyz Republic” (UNDP, 2020-2024, Naryn province, Chatkal district, Kanysh-Kyya village); (3) “Identification of suitable areas for afforestation, reforestation and restoration of degraded forests on the State Forest Territory in the Kyrgyz Republic” (GIZ, 2023-2024); (4) “Kyrgyzstan Pasture and Natural Resource Management” (US Forest Service, 2021-2025); (5) “Carbon Sequestration through Climate Investments in Forests and Rangelands in the KR”/CS-FOR (GCF, $49.9 million, 2022-2030). The program “Green Economy and Sustainable Private Sector Development in Kyrgyzstan” (GIZ, BMZ, EU, Swiss Government, 2023-2026) is underway.
In accordance with the Presidential Decree “On the Key Areas of the Concept of the Pilot Project ‘Asman Eco-City’ in Issyk-Kul Province,” the core components of the concept were developed.
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) project “Vanishing Treasures” was successfully completed, with its outcomes presented at a national consultation meeting held on April 30. On May 31, a closing meeting was held for the project “Consolidating Institutional Capacities for National Surface Water Quality Monitoring in the Kyrgyz Republic (KGZ-Water III),” which aimed to strengthen the capacity of national authorities to enhance the country’s environmental monitoring system.
April 30, Source
The WB has approved a $45 million financing for the “Kyrgyz Republic Resilient Landscape Restoration Project”/RESILAND KR (2024-2029).
Capacity building. The following events were held: (1) a regional workshop on the use of the Enhanced Transparency Framework reporting tools for Central Asia (May 15-17); (2) a training session on air pollution (September 26); (3) a seminar on the development of the National Action Plan to mitigate chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) risks in the Kyrgyz Republic (October 28-29).
Events. (1) round table on optimizing the legislative framework for the implementation of climate policy (May 8); (2) Pre-COP29 Regional Conference “Adaptation Planning and Financing in Central Asia” (September 25-26); “Climate Week” and national climate forum-dialogue “Pathway to COP29: Adaptation to Climate Change” (October 7-11); event “Post UNFCCC COP-29 and CBD COP-16: Kyrgyzstan and the World. The Way Forward” (December 6).
The Kyrgyz delegation took part in: (1) the Regional Conference of Youth and Children on Climate Change in CA and Afghanistan (September 5); (2) the “New Economic Challenges of Long-term Development of the Kyrgyz Republic” Forum (Bishkek, September 11); (3) the high-level Pre-COP29 event (Baku, October 9-12); (4) the United Nations Biodiversity Conference “Making Peace with Nature”/COP-16, during which Kyrgyzstan actively promoted initiatives for the protection of mountain ecosystems and biodiversity (Cali, Colombia, October 21-November 3); (5) the international conference “Nature-based Solutions to Combat Climate Change” (Antalya, Turkey, December 1).
For the first time, the Kyrgyz Pavilion was organized at COP29 with the support of CAREC, serving as a platform to showcase the country’s environmental initiatives.
October 21 – November 3, Source
Regional and international cooperation. The matters related to cooperation in the field of ecology, mitigation of climate change and attraction of climate investments were discussed during meetings of the MNRETS with OECD (May 21); PRC delegation (July 15); UN Resident Coordinator in Kyrgyzstan (July 26); Chief Investment Officer of the Green Climate Fund (GCF) Henry Gonzales (November 15) and others.
The Kyrgyz delegation took part in the 5th meeting of the heads of SCO member states’ ministries and agencies in charge of environmental protection (Astana, May 22) and the session of the UNFCCC subsidiary bodies (Bonn, June 3-13).
The following documents were signed: an agreement on cooperation in the field of environmental protection between the governments of the SCO member states (Astana, July 4); MoC between protected natural territories of Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan (October 17).
Experts of the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek together with the Kyrgyz MNRETS prepared a draft National Report on the Aarhus Convention . In 2024, the Republic debuted in the Wikipedia photo contest “Wiki Loves Earth”.
SDGs in Kyrgyzstan
Kyrgyzstan was ranked 48th out of 167 countries in the annual sustainable development rating published by the UN and BertelsmannStiftung.
Events. Several events were organized, including: (1) workshops: “Analysis of the SDG indicators for preparation of the 2nd Voluntary National Review of SDGs in the Kyrgyz Republic” (October 29); “SDGs for Higher Education: Learning from the European Experience” (November 5-6); (2) official launch of the project “Agartuu: Educating the Youth of Kyrgyzstan on SDGs” (May 31) and discussion on educating the youth in the Jogorku Kenesh (December 20).
Cooperation. UN has launched a joint digital health programme ($4.03 million, 2024-2027).
Publications. The National Statistical Committee of the KR prepared a short version of the statistical compendium “SDGs Statistics in the Kyrgyz Republic”, 2015-2022.
Emergencies
The Kyrgyz Republic is actively working to implement the “Concept for Comprehensive Protection of the Population and Territories from Emergencies (2018–2030)” in alignment with the Sendai Framework.
Public administration reforms. The Center for Training and Retraining of Civil Defense Specialists under the Ministry of Emergency Situations of the Kyrgyz Republic (MES KR) was renamed the Training and Research Center under the MES KR, in accordance with Government Resolution No. 19 dated January 24, 2024.
Latest developments in legislation. The following policy documents were approved: (1) Regulation on the Training and Research Center under the MES KR (PKM KR No. 19 of 24.01.2024); (2) Civil Protection Plans for 2024 (UP KR No. 25 of 9.02.2024); (3) Regulation on rescuers and voluntary rescue teams of the Kyrgyz Republic (PKM KR No. 656 of 31.10.2024).
The Kyrgyz Government adopted the PKM KR No. 76 of 22.02.2024 “On Amendments to the Resolution of the Kyrgyz Government No. 569 of 23.10.2019 on the Unified System for Integrated Monitoring and Forecasting of Emergency Situations in the Kyrgyz Republic”.
Natural disasters. In 2024, the Ministry of Emergency Situations of the Kyrgyz Republic (MES KR) reported 133 major emergencies, resulting in 79 fatalities and causing material damage estimated at 1.34 billion KGS.
Preventive/recovery measures. Power engineers in Issyk-Kul undertook a series of flood control measures to enhance the reliability of the region’s power supply. Repair and restoration works are ongoing on several highways affected by floods and mudslides, including Bishkek–Naryn–Torugart, Zhol-Cholok–Boom, and Ak-Terek–Papan–Kozhokelen. Additionally, a weather station was launched in Batken as part of the early warning system, aimed at protecting the Fergana Valley from climate-related risks and potential natural disasters.
December 9, Source
Projects. The Center for Emergency Situations and Disaster Risk Reduction (CESDRR) has been implementing over 30 projects focused on regional cooperation, disaster risk reduction, and emergency prevention, with funding support from international donors and organizations.
The Global Green Growth Institute intends to provide $8 million to the MES KR for joint projects.
The results of the project “Reducing Risks and Vulnerability from Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOF) in Kyrgyzstan” (Government of Japan, UNDP, MES) were summarized. The project led to the following key outcomes: (1) developed National Action Plan until 2030; (2) enhanced national capacity for DRR; (3) strengthened adaptive capacity of local communities.
Capacity building. The MES KR organized: (1) fire drills (March 25; August 4); (2) opening ceremony of the next XI International Training for diving specialists under the auspices of the ICDO (July 5); (3) International Meeting and Seminar on Mountain Rescue Training with representatives of rescue services of the ICDO member states (August 19-30); (4) regional demonstration drills as part of the month-long celebration of “October 5 - Disaster Risk Reduction Day in the KR” (October 4); (5) trainings aimed to increase knowledge and awareness of the population about the threats of emergencies and methods of self-preservation (October 23).
The Kyrgyz delegation took part in training on drought control in Central Asia (Beijing, May 6-10) and rendering the first psychological aid and stress management (June 10).
Events. The following events took place: (1) opening of the ICDO Regional Office for CA and Asia (Bishkek, May 22); (2) 6th joint meeting of the Emergency Situations Ministries of Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan (Bosteri, August 14); (3) Regional Forum - Meeting of the Heads of Emergency Agencies of CA countries (Cholpon-Ata, August 15); (4) opening ceremony of the 20th meeting of the Consultative Council of the heads of state authorities managing the state material reserves in the CIS member states (Cholpon-Ata, September 3); (5) 5th scientific and practical conference “October 5 - Disaster Risk Reduction Day in Kyrgyzstan” (October 11).
Cooperation. The MES KR held meetings with: (1) UN Resident Coordinator in the KR (February 27); (2) Head of the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek (March 11, December 27); (3) Director of the ADB Resident Mission in the KR (March 19); (4) Deputy Minister of Water Resources of the PRC (Beijing, September 23); (5) GGGI Director General (Seoul, October 7); (6) WB delegation (Bishkek, November 5); (7) delegation of the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (Bishkek, November 6); (8) ADB Director General for Central and Western Asia (Baku, November 12); (9) Director of the Finnish Meteorological Institute “FINKMET” (Baku, November 13); (10) Head of the GCF Office (Baku, November 13); (11) FAO representative (Baku, November 13); (12) Head of the “Doctors Without Borders - Switzerland” mission (November 26); (13) Coordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities (December 20); (14) Director General of “Qatar Charity” branch (December 24).
The UN Secretary General visited a mudflow canal built to protect the territory from glacial lakes outburst flooding. UNICEF handed over 10 large tents and nearly 5,000 pieces of protective equipment to the MES KR (July 29).
An Agreement on the Establishment of the Civil Protection Mechanism within the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) was signed during the 11th OTS Summit.
The Kyrgyz delegation took part in: (1) the 68th session of the General Conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency (Vienna, September 16-20); (2) 25th meeting of the Commission of the CIS Member States on the Use of Atomic Energy for Peaceful Purposes (Nizhny Novgorod, November 4); (3) meeting of the Assembly of Donors of the Environmental Rehabilitation Account for CA countries (London, December 6); (4) 15th meeting of the Council of the Center for ES and DRR chaired by the Kyrgyz side (Almaty, December 24).
Foreign Policy and International Cooperation
In 2024, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kyrgyz Republic (MFA KR) had 150 high-level foreign policy events, including 78 held in Kyrgyzstan and 72 abroad. Notable events included: 25 visits by the President of the Kyrgyz Republic, 13 visits by the Speaker of the Jogorku Kenesh, 19 foreign trips by the Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers. Additionally, MFA KR prepared nearly 552 international treaties for signing, comprising 117 bilateral and 435 multilateral agreements.
Working and official visits. In 2024, the Kyrgyz President paid visits to UAE (February), Tatarstan (February, October), Kazakhstan (April, July, August, September 8, September 17, November), Azerbaijan (April, July, November), Russia (May, October, December), Belgium (June), Uzbekistan (July), France (July), USA (September), Italy (October), Turkmenistan (October), Saudi Arabia (November), Austria (November), Germany (November), and South Korea (December).
Major significant events in the Kyrgyz foreign policy in 2024
The key priorities of the KR foreign policy are to strengthen relations with strategic partners and neighboring states of Central Asia and Eurasia, enhance political dialogue and cooperation within the UN framework, and boost climate actions.
Kyrgyzstan hosted: (1) 10th Annual CAMCA Regional Forum (Bishkek, June 12-13); (2) VI Kyrgyz-Russian Economic Forum (Bosteri, September 11-13); (3) Turkic States Artificial Intelligence Summit (Bishkek, October 9-10); (4) Regional Forum “Green Economy 2024” (Bishkek, October 23-24); (5) 11th Summit of the OTS (Bishkek, November 6).
Development of alliances and strategic partnerships. Governmental delegations from Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan successfully completed the delimitation of all remaining sections of the Tajik-Kyrgyz state border. Additionally, Kyrgyzstan and the European Union signed an Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (EPCA).
The Kyrgyz President signed laws on ratification of: (1) an agreement on the construction of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway; (2) Treaty on Deepening and Expanding Allied Relations between Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan; (3) exchange notes between the MFA KR and the Embassy of China in Kyrgyzstan that stipulate the opening of the Bedel checkpoint on the Kyrgyz-Chinese border.
Chairmanship in international organizations. Kyrgyzstan assumed the Chairmanship of OTS for 2024-2025. For the first time, Kyrgyzstan has become the Chair of the Asia-Pacific Information Superhighway Steering Committee under UNESCAP (Jeju, September 25-26). The Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Kyrgyzstan chaired the 22nd meeting of the Council of the Heads of Government of the SCO Member States (Bishkek, October 26).
Promotion of the national interests and reinforcement of the country’s image in the global stage
UN. Participation of the Kyrgyz President S. Zhaparov in the 79th session of the UNGA contributed to bilateral cooperation on security, climate change, sustainable mountain development and SDGs. At the initiative of Kyrgyzstan, the UNGA adopted a resolution declaring October 23 as the International Snow Leopard Day. A side-event “Development of mountain regions” held in New York was organized by Kyrgyzstan, Nepal, Italy, UNDP and the Mountain Partnership Secretariat. Kyrgyzstan’s intention to run for a non-permanent seat in the UN Security Council for 2027-2028 was announced at the meeting with the UN Secretary General.
CIS. Kyrgyzstan hosted the 15th meeting of the CIS Tourism Council (Cholpon-Ata, July 11) and the meeting of the CIS Council for Cooperation in Education (Bishkek, November 12).
The Kyrgyz delegation attended: (1) a meeting of the CIS Council of Heads of Government (Ashgabat, May 24); (2) a meeting of the CIS Council of the Heads of State (Moscow, October 7-8); (3) a restricted-format CIS summit (Moscow, October 8); (4) a meeting of the CIS Council of the Heads of Government (Moscow, December 12); (5) informal CIS summit and meeting of the Supreme Eurasian Economic Council (St. Petersburg, December 24).
SCO. Kyrgyzstan hosted the 22nd meeting of the Prosecutors General of the SCO Member States (Bishkek, July 25) and the 22nd meeting of the SCO Council of the Heads of Government in an expanded format (Bishkek, October 26).
The Kyrgyz delegation took part in: (1) the SCO summit (Astana, July 3-4); (2) meeting of the SCO Ministers responsible for foreign economic and foreign trade activities (Islamabad, September 12); (3) 42nd meeting of the Council of the SCO Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (Beijing, September 13).
CSTO. The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kyrgyzstan took part in the working meeting of the Foreign Ministers of the CSTO Member States (New York, September 26).
Within the framework of CSTO, Kyrgyzstan participated in: (1) the “Interaction-2024” command-staff exercises (Balykchy, September 7); (2) “Search-2024” and “Echelon-2024” exercises (Balykchy, September 11); (3) “Indestructible Brotherhood-2024” exercises (Alma-Ata province, September 26-October 7); (4) “Rubezh-2024” joint exercises (Khatlon province, October 18).
Sources
Official sites of the: President, Parliament, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Water Resources, Agriculture and Processing Industry, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Energy, Ministry of Natural Resources, Environment and Technical Supervision, Ministry of Emergency Situations, Water Resources Service, Center for Emergency Situations and Disaster Risk Reduction, Permanent Mission of the KR to the UN, National Electric Grid of Kyrgyzstan.
Information agencies: kabar.kg, knews.kg, akchabar.kg
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