Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Economy Serik Zhumangarin met with Abebe Adugna, World Bank Regional Director for Welfare in Europe and Central Asia. The two discussed the current economic situation, future reform directions, infrastructure development, and prospects for cooperation.

Serik Zhumangarin noted the strategic nature of Kazakhstan's partnership with the World Bank Group. Over 33 years of cooperation, the Bank has supported the implementation of more than 50 projects totaling over $8 billion in the areas of transport, education, environmental protection, green technologies, and digitalization.

Abebe Adugna noted the positive dynamics of Kazakhstan's economy, including growth and investment activity.

During the meeting, the parties discussed infrastructure development and financing mechanisms. World Bank representatives emphasized the importance of accompanying infrastructure investments with institutional and regulatory reforms that enhance their effectiveness and create conditions for increased productivity and innovation.

Serik Zhumangarin emphasized that Kazakhstan views infrastructure development not only from the perspective of domestic needs but also within a regional context. This includes the further development of transport routes linking Central Asia with other regions.

"Kazakhstan's infrastructure is just the first step toward creating a large, unified infrastructure chain for Central Asia. This isn't just about improving our internal roads and railways. We need to ensure that all these roads are profitable for us and our neighboring countries," noted Serik Zhumangarin.

The World Bank confirmed its readiness to continue working with the Kazakh side on infrastructure financing mechanisms, taking into account international experience.

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/economy/press/news/details/1300506?lang=ru