On November 14, 2024, a meeting took place at the Secretariat of the Investment Council of the Kyrgyz Republic, attended by Zulfiqar Khan, Program and Grants Coordinator of the U.S. Department of State, responsible for the Improvement of Business Environment in Central Asia Program (IBECA). The meeting focused on the Central Asia Migration and Entrepreneurship Program (CAMEP) and its goals in the context of the current economic challenges in the region.

Central Asia has faced significant labor outflows to Russia for decades. Remittances from migrants make up a substantial part of the GDP in countries like the Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. Since February 2022, with increasing pressure on migrants in Russia, a mass repatriation process has been observed — migrants are returning home, creating new economic challenges for the countries in the region.

The CAMEP program, funded by the U.S. Department of State and implemented by CIPE, aims to support the private sector in integrating returning migrants into the economies of Central Asian countries. It includes improving the business environment, developing entrepreneurial skills, and creating opportunities for migrants to become entrepreneurs and employers.

During the meeting, Uluk Kydyrbaev emphasized the importance of supporting returning migrants through entrepreneurship development and improving the business environment. He also highlighted the need for comprehensive measures to support the private sector and create new jobs amidst the mass return of migrant workers. Particular attention was paid to program areas such as analyzing the needs of migrants and employers, improving the business environment, and individual skills development programs for returning labor migrants.

At the end of the meeting, both sides expressed their hope for the successful implementation of the CAMEP Program and their willingness to continue collaboration aimed at integrating migrants and improving the business environment in the region.

From November 13 to 15, the Regional Public-Private Dialogue (PPD) Academy for Central Asian business associations is taking place in Bishkek. The event has gathered representatives from business associations and international organizations to discuss key issues related to the development of PPD in the region.

During the event, Uluk Kydyrbaev, Head of the Secretariat of the Investment Council under the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic, delivered a guest lecture. He shared the Kyrgyz Republic's experience in implementing PPD mechanisms through the Investment Council, which stands as the only high-level active platform for PPD in the country. He presented case studies illustrating how the Council creates space for constructive dialogue between the state and the private sector. Kydyrbaev also highlighted ongoing efforts to activate PPD at the regional level through the establishment of Regional Investment Councils, emphasizing the support provided by UNDP in this regard.

Furthermore, Uluk Kydyrbaev noted the importance of strengthening the institutional capacity of business associations to effectively advocate for the interests of entrepreneurs at both regional and national levels.

The Regional PPD Academy is being conducted by the International Business Council and the Center for International Private Enterprise (CIPE). The Academy aims to strengthen PPD institutions and enhance the capacity of business associations in advocating for the interests of entrepreneurs at all levels.

Climate change impacts all aspects of economic activity, necessitating the adoption of environmentally friendly technologies, strengthening resilience to external factors, and adapting business strategies to new realities. It is crucial to note that the development of a green economy and the implementation of ESG principles (environmental, social, and corporate governance) are not just necessities but form the foundation for sustainable growth and the long-term prosperity of the country.

On November 5th, a meeting was held at the office of the Secretariat of the Investment Council under the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic, focusing on the adaptation of businesses, investment, and PPP projects to climate change while considering ESG principles.

The meeting was attended by representatives from the Ministry of Economy and Commerce of the Kyrgyz Republic, the PPP Center, the Association of Renewable Energy of the Kyrgyz Republic, the Union of Banks of Kyrgyzstan, the International Business Council, the OSCE in the Kyrgyz Republic, and other stakeholders. Discussions aimed at developing recommendations for the implementation of the Green Economy Development Program in the Kyrgyz Republic for 2024-2028.

As a result of the meeting, a decision was made to establish an advisory group within the platform of the Secretariat of the Investment Council, comprising representatives from both public and private organizations, as well as international development programs. The key task of this group will be to develop constructive recommendations and proposals for adapting business processes to the conditions of a changing climate, as well as to create conditions for the successful implementation of projects based on PPP principles.

The Secretariat of the Investment Council continues to support initiatives aimed at implementing green initiatives, improving the investment climate in the country, and creating conditions for sustainable economic growth.