ADB pledges $10 billion to transform Central Asia’s connectivity, sustainability

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has announced plans to invest more than $10 billion by 2030 to support projects and initiatives under the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC) program. The investment aims to advance regional connectivity, digital integration, and sustainable development.

According to Caliber.Az, citing Kyrgyz media, the announcement was made by the press service of Kyrgyzstan’s Ministry of Economy.

ADB President Masato Kanda emphasised the strategic vision of CAREC, saying, “The vision of CAREC is clear to us: a region with economic and environmental sustainability, social inclusivity, and digital connectivity. These projects will help deepen integration, enhance resilience, and foster shared growth.”

The statement was made during the 24th CAREC Ministerial Conference, where participants also approved mid-term reviews of key sectoral strategies covering transport, trade, and digital development. These strategies provide a roadmap to strengthen regional connectivity, promote trade diversification, and accelerate digitalisation through investments in green infrastructure, smart mobility, and harmonised regulations.

The initiatives align with ADB’s broader goal of supporting inclusive, sustainable, and stable growth across the region, which encompasses the Caucasus as well as Central, Eastern, and South Asia.

The conference also highlighted progress in streamlining trade procedures and modernising border operations.

Notably, participants approved the “Regional Enhancement of Border Services under the Almaty–Bishkek Economic Corridor” project. This initiative will upgrade three key border crossings between Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan, making them more resilient and energy-efficient.

By Tamilla Hasanova