Odile Renaud-Basso, President of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), announced the launch of a significant project aimed at expanding access to clean drinking water in Kyrgyzstan. With an investment of $100 million, the initiative will benefit 25 localities across the country.
The announcement took place during a meeting between Renaud-Basso and President Sadyr Japarov in Samarkand, where they discussed various areas of cooperation. This investment is part of EBRD’s broader commitment to supporting Kyrgyzstan’s infrastructure and sustainable development goals.
Renaud-Basso emphasized the importance of improving access to safe drinking water, particularly in rural areas, as a key component of Kyrgyzstan’s long-term development strategy. She noted that this initiative would significantly improve the quality of life for Kyrgyz citizens.
President Japarov expressed his gratitude for EBRD’s ongoing support, underscoring the importance of international partnerships in addressing Kyrgyzstan’s infrastructure needs. Both leaders also discussed opportunities for further cooperation in the energy and water sectors, focusing on sustainability and climate resilience.
In addition to the water project, Renaud-Basso outlined other EBRD-supported initiatives in Kyrgyzstan, including investments in energy, infrastructure, and climate adaptation. In 2024 alone, EBRD invested $52 million in the country’s real economy and plans 11 new projects, with a particular focus on energy and irrigation.
Renaud-Basso also highlighted the EBRD’s involvement in the reconstruction of the Kara-Balta–Chaldybar road, which will enhance regional connectivity and link Kyrgyzstan to the Trans-Caspian international transport corridor.
At the close of the meeting, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in green energy, infrastructure, and sustainable development, with the goal of fostering Kyrgyzstan’s growth and regional integration.