The second ministerial round table dedicated to the ambitious project for the construction of Kambarata HPP-1 ended in Dubai. The energy ministers of Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic and Uzbekistan met again on May 26–27, 2025 to discuss this key regional initiative, which, according to the plan, should strengthen the energy security of Central Asia and promote the rational use of water resources. Despite its stated objectives, however, the project remains the subject of considerable debate, particularly in the context of its uncertain environmental and social implications. The World Bank provided organizational support for the meeting.
The negotiations were attended by high-ranking delegations of the three countries led by the Ministers of Energy: Erlan Akkenzhenov from Kazakhstan, Taalaibek Ibraev from the Kyrgyz Republic and Jurabek Mirzamakhmudov from Uzbekistan. The presence of representatives of the Ministries of Finance and Water Resources highlights the complex nature of issues related to the construction of a 1,860-megawatt hydroelectric power station on the Naryn River in Kyrgyzstan. This large-scale project is being implemented jointly by the governments of the three states, which involves a complex process of reconciling interests.
The governments of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan previously approached the World Bank with a request for technical assistance. This assistance includes updating the feasibility study (feasibility study), which in itself indicates the need to revise the initial calculations. Particular importance is attached to the preparation of a comprehensive environmental and social assessment of the intended consequences of the project – a step which recognises the potential risks to the environment and the local population. Also in focus is the development of a sustainable financing model and commercial structure for the project, which is a challenge for such a capital-intensive undertaking.
The roundtable was attended by senior representatives of the World Bank, including Director for Central Asia Tatyana Proskuryakova, Director of Strategy and Operations for Europe and Central Asia (ECA) Carolina Sanchez-Paramo, Regional Director for Infrastructure in the ECA Region Charles Joseph Cormier and Head of Energy Programs in the ECA region by Stephanie Gil. According to Tatyana Proskuryakova, «The World Bank welcomes the unprecedented level of cooperation between the countries of Central Asia in ensuring energy and water security in the region. In partnership with other international organizations, we are pleased to support the efforts of the Governments of Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic and Uzbekistan to implement the Kambarata HPP-1 project, which will bring significant economic and social benefits to the entire region and its inhabitants». This statement reflects the bank’s official position, but the completeness of these benefits and their relationship to possible costs are still subject to careful assessment.
The Ministers reaffirmed the political commitment of their States to the project, seeing it as a catalyst for strengthening regional energy security. The parties discussed the progress made since the first meeting in Tashkent in January 2025. Emphasis was again placed on feasibility studies and on environmental and social aspects, which remain the focus of public and expert attention. Participants reviewed updated cost estimates for the project, grid upgrade needs, and potential sources of financing, including support from international financial institutions. The key principles of cooperation in the water and energy sector also required detailed discussion, given the transboundary nature of water resources.
Minister of Energy of Kazakhstan Erlan Akkenzhenov said: «Promotion of the Kambarata HPP-1 project — is the result of close and productive interaction between our three countries. Kazakhstan is firmly committed to this initiative and will continue active cooperation with partners to achieve common goals in the field of energy development of the region». His colleague from the Kyrgyz Republic, Taalaibek Ibraev, emphasized: «Kambarata HPP-1 — the basis of the national energy development strategy of the Kyrgyz Republic and the most important project for the future of Central Asia. We are proud to implement it in close partnership with Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, based on a common vision of sustainable water use and regional energy security. Together, we are confidently moving towards the start of the project in 2025». Uzbek Energy Minister Jurabek Mirzamakhmudov added: «Together with our regional partners, we note with satisfaction the significant progress achieved since the first ministerial round table in Tashkent. I am confident that thanks to the concerted actions of our countries and the support of international financial institutions, we will be able to implement this project in full compliance with international technical, environmental and social standards».
Despite the optimism expressed, the implementation of such a large hydropower project inevitably poses serious challenges, especially in assessing and minimizing the impact on the region’s fragile mountain ecosystems and water balance. Following the meeting, the parties agreed on further measures and deadlines necessary for preparing the project. The intention to continue regional cooperation and regular ministerial meetings was confirmed, which indicates an understanding of the complexity of the tasks at hand and the need for constant dialogue to advance this ambitious project.
Alexander Eskendirov (Rivers.Help!)
