Kazakh President Meets with EDB Head, Discusses Investments and Economic Growth

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev held a meeting with Nikolai Podguzov, Chairman of the Management Board of the Eurasian Development Bank (EDB). The discussions centered on the outcomes of the bank's two decades of operation and prospects for deepening investment cooperation.

The Head of State congratulated the EDB on its 20th anniversary, highlighting the institution's role as a key partner for Kazakhstan in implementing strategically important projects.

Nikolai Podguzov presented the bank's economic forecasts, which indicate that Kazakhstan's GDP growth in 2026 will be no less than 5.5%. This positive outlook is attributed to sustained investment activity, large-scale infrastructure programs, stable domestic demand, and strong social indicators.

The President was informed that under the EDB's strategy for 2022-2026, its total investment volume has reached $9.2 billion. Of this amount, $5.2 billion has been invested into Kazakhstan's economy—a figure comparable to the bank's total investments over the preceding 15 years.

The breakdown of these investments shows approximately $2.1 billion directed towards industrial development, $1 billion to the energy sector, another $1 billion to transport infrastructure, and $1.1 billion to the financial sector. Special attention is being paid to supporting digitalization and the adoption of artificial intelligence technologies.

President Tokayev noted the significant expansion of the bank's geographical presence, stating that this facilitates new initiatives and strengthens regional economic integration.

Following the meeting, both sides confirmed their mutual interest in further strengthening strategic partnership and investment cooperation for the sustainable development of Kazakhstan's economy.