Zhambyl Region Governor Yerbol Karashukeyev took part in the Second Forum of Interregional Cooperation between Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan in Bishkek. He presented the region’s trade and economic ties and outlined areas for further cooperation.
The forum was also attended by Kazakh Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov and Kyrgyz Cabinet Chairman and Head of the Presidential Administration Adylbek Kasymaliyev.
Trade turnover between Zhambyl Region and Kyrgyzstan totalled $112.7 million in January–August 2026, 1.6 times the figure for the same period last year. Exports from the region rose 1.9 times to $79.9 million, while imports from Kyrgyzstan increased 1.1 times to $32.8 million.
Karashukeyev identified industrial cooperation, the agro-industrial sector, transport and logistics, water resources, and tourism as priority areas. He described an industrial trade and logistics complex near the Karasu and Ak-Tilek border checkpoints as one of the promising joint projects.
A 165-hectare site has been designated for the project in Kordai District. Preparations are under way for land-use planning and title documents. The complex is intended to host joint production, agricultural processing, storage, transport and trade.
The forum also addressed the efficient use of transboundary water resources. About 85% of Zhambyl Region’s irrigation water originates in Kyrgyzstan, making cooperation in the Shu and Talas river basins important.
Karashukeyev proposed forming a joint working group to develop a portfolio of investment projects, holding regular business meetings and an annual interregional business forum, and introducing a one-stop shop for investor support. He also proposed tourism routes linking Taraz’s historical and cultural heritage with Issyk-Kul and Kyrgyzstan’s mountain attractions.
