Astana, Kazakhstan, 04 July 2025 — A delegation from the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) conducted an official visit to the Republic of Kazakhstan from 30 June -4 July 2025 to strengthen collaboration in areas of sustainable water resources management and infrastructure development.

The visit built on earlier agreements to fund water resource management infrastructure and support key sectors of Kazakhstan’s economy, with a particular focus on water management.

The main purpose of the visit was to conduct training seminars and working meetings that focused on:

• Enhancing the institutional capacity in water resources management
• Promoting the adoption of modern technologies, automation, and digitalization in water infrastructure
• Supporting technical education and workforce development
• Encouraging private sector involvement in climate-resilient water projects

As part of its commitment to socio-economic development of its member countries, the IsDB has invested significantly in Kazakhstan’s water sector, under the US$1.15 billion Climate Resilient Water Resources Management Project, which the Bank approved in 2024.

The project includes:

• Construction of five new reservoirs: Akmola, Bolshoy Uzen, Karauzyak, Kalguty, and the Astana Reservoir Recharge Project
• Reconstruction of four existing facilities: Karakonyz, Koksarai Counter-Regulator, Ters-Ashibulak, and Koskorgan
• Major repairs and upgrades to 115 irrigation canals

These projects cover seven across regions including: Akmola, Almaty, Zhambyl, Zhetysu, Kyzylorda, Turkestan, and West Kazakhstan.

During the visit, the IsDB delegation held high-level meetings with the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of National Economy, and Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation of the Republic of Kazakhstan to discuss current and future projects under bilateral cooperation.

Site visits were also made to the Turkestan and Almaty regions, where major construction activities are planned under the climate-resilient water initiative.

In partnership with the Atameken National Chamber of Entrepreneurs (NCE), the Bank held an extended seminar with regional business leaders and NCE committees. The seminar focused on project goals, expected outcomes, and private sector opportunities across all regions.
The visit reaffirmed both sides' commitment to a long-term strategic partnership. Discussions emphasized the importance of strengthening Kazakhstan’s water sector to meet global climate challenges.

The IsDB remains a key international development partner in Kazakhstan’s infrastructure and socio-economic development. Both sides expressed interest in expanding cooperation through new programs and initiatives in the coming years.