Azerbaijan to build $20 million wellness resort on Kazakhstan’s Alakol coast PHOTO

Azerbaijan is preparing to invest tens of millions of dollars in the construction of a large-scale medical and tourism complex on the shores of Lake Alakol in Kazakhstan.

The announcement came during a meeting between Abai Region Governor (Akim) Berik Uali and Alim Bayel, Kazakhstan’s Ambassador to Azerbaijan, Caliber.Az reports, referring to Kazakh media.

Also present were Aslan Kuniyarov, Deputy Chairman of the Azerbaijan-Kazakhstan Business Council and Chairman of the Board of the Association of Turkic Entrepreneurs, as well as representatives from Azerbaijan Investment Holding and the Azerbaijan Business Development Fund.

During the meeting, the Azerbaijani delegation unveiled an investment project for the development of a modern international health and wellness centre capable of accommodating up to 800 guests year-round. The planned investment totals $20 million.

Once operational, the facility is expected to create approximately 200 new jobs and serve as a key driver in boosting the region’s appeal to tourists, enhancing local tax revenues, and fostering a new niche industry combining healthcare and leisure services.

Ambassador Bayel highlighted the broader strategic context of the initiative, noting the strengthening alliance between Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan. He recalled that Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev had made three official visits to Azerbaijan in the previous year, during which he outlined a clear mandate to deepen economic cooperation and promote joint ventures in tourism and manufacturing.

“In 2024, a joint investment fund between Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan was established. If the Alakol project is realised, it could become one of the flagship initiatives within the framework of this fund,” Bayel noted.

Governor Berik Uali welcomed the investment proposal, emphasising the fraternal bond between the two nations.

“Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan share common historical and spiritual roots. We are pleased to support your initiative to build a major tourist complex in our region. A master plan for the Alakol tourist zone is currently in development, and we are ready to allocate a plot of land for construction. The regional government will provide the necessary support,” Uali stated.

By Tamilla Hasanova