ASIATODAY.ID, ASTANA — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has reaffirmed its strategic partnership with Kazakhstan, announcing up to $5.4 billion in indicative financing for 2026–2029 to support the country’s long-term development agenda.
The announcement was made by ADB President Masato Kanda during his meeting with Kazakhstan’s President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in Astana on March 2, 2026.
Backing Sustainable and Inclusive Growth
Kanda emphasized ADB’s commitment to supporting Kazakhstan’s structural reforms and development priorities aimed at strengthening public finances, attracting investment, and fostering inclusive economic growth.
“ADB is committed to supporting Kazakhstan’s development priorities that promote sustainable and inclusive growth. Through close cooperation with the government and private sector, we will advance priority investments that deliver lasting benefits for the people of Kazakhstan,” Kanda said.
The financing framework, outlined in a memorandum of understanding signed during the visit, focuses on:
– Enhancing regional cooperation
– Strengthening resilience to natural hazards
– Addressing regional disparities
$377 Million Saryagash Bypass Project
A key milestone during the visit was the signing of a $377 million equivalent loan agreement for the Saryagash Bypass Project. The initiative is expected to boost Kazakhstan’s trade and transport connectivity across Central Asia, reinforcing its position as a regional logistics hub.
The project forms part of broader infrastructure modernization efforts aimed at improving competitiveness and regional integration.
Infrastructure, Digital Transformation, and Critical Minerals
In addition to meeting President Tokayev, Kanda held discussions with Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov and Deputy Prime Minister–Minister of National Economy and ADB Governor Serik Zhumangarin.
Talks centered on:
– Infrastructure modernization
– Private sector development and public–private partnerships (PPPs)
– Digital transformation
– Emerging opportunities in the critical minerals sector, a rapidly growing area of global strategic importance
A Longstanding Partnership
Kazakhstan joined ADB in 1994. Since then, the bank has committed approximately $7.7 billion in loans, grants, and technical assistance across key sectors including public sector management, transport, finance, and energy.
Founded in 1966 and owned by 69 members—50 from Asia and the Pacific—ADB remains one of the region’s leading multilateral development banks, supporting resilient, inclusive, and sustainable growth.
With planned financing of up to $5.4 billion over the next four years, Kazakhstan stands to accelerate its reform agenda and strengthen its position as a strategic economic player in Central Asia. (AT Network)
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