AIIB President Concludes Central Asia Tour, Signs New Infrastructure Deals

The President of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), Jin Liqun, has concluded a significant visit to four Central Asian nations. The tour, described as a "listening mission," included high-level meetings with the leaders of Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan and resulted in new agreements for financing key infrastructure projects.

During the trip, Jin Liqun emphasized the strategic importance of Central Asia as a vital transport and trade bridge connecting Europe and East Asia. He highlighted the region's growing role in energy integration and its clear priorities for sustainable growth.

"Central Asia is a natural partner for AIIB," stated Jin Liqun. "As countries accelerate renewable energy development and modernize infrastructure, AIIB is committed to supporting member priorities through sustainable infrastructure financing and partnership."

The AIIB president held talks with Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov, and Tajik President Emomali Rahmon. Discussions focused on critical areas including transport connectivity, energy transition, climate resilience, water resource management, digital infrastructure development, and private sector growth.

The visit yielded concrete financial commitments. A framework partnership agreement was signed with Kazakhstan. Uzbekistan secured a $102 million loan for reconstructing local road networks in Karakalpakstan and Khorezm regions. Kyrgyzstan received a $50 million credit line to develop sustainable financing markets for micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises.

In Tajikistan, Jin visited the Nurek Hydroelectric Power Plant—one of AIIB's earliest projects in Central Asia—underscoring the bank's long-term commitment to the region since its founding in 2016.

AIIB's current portfolio in Central Asia stands at approximately $8 billion, representing about 11% of the bank's total operations. The institution plans to continue expanding non-sovereign financing and supporting climate-smart infrastructure across the region.