Kazakhstan intends to develop its road and rail routes so that they generate revenue not only for the republic but also for neighboring states. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Economy Serik Zhumangarin discussed these plans and possible financing mechanisms with World Bank representative Abebe Adugna, according to infohub.kz.
In addition to infrastructure issues, the parties touched upon Kazakhstan's economic situation and further reforms.
Zhumangarin recalled that over 33 years of cooperation with World Bank support, more than 50 projects worth over $8 billion have been implemented in the country. They covered transport, education, environmental protection, green technologies, and digitalization.
Abebe Adugna, in turn, noted the positive dynamics of Kazakhstan's economy, including growth and investment activity.
Speaking about new transport routes, the minister suggested looking beyond Kazakhstan: roads and railway lines should connect Central Asia with other regions.
"Kazakhstan's infrastructure is only the first step toward creating a large unified infrastructure chain of Central Asia. This is not just about improving our internal roads and railways. We need to make sure that all these roads are profitable for us and neighboring countries," Zhumangarin said.
World Bank representatives noted that infrastructure investments must be accompanied by changes in the work of state institutions and regulatory rules.
In their assessment, this will increase the effectiveness of projects and create conditions for productivity growth and innovation. The bank confirmed its readiness to continue working with Kazakhstan on infrastructure financing mechanisms.
Earlier, Kursiv reported on how the World Bank recommended that Kazakhstan change its growth model.