Today in Tashkent (Republic of Uzbekistan) a round table was held dedicated to the further development of the construction project of Kambarata HPP-1 in the Kyrgyz Republic. The event was attended by the Minister of Energy of the Republic of Uzbekistan Zhurabek Mirzamakhmudov, the Minister of Energy of the Kyrgyz Republic Taalaibek Ibraev, the Deputy Minister of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan Sungat Yesimkhanov, as well as the World Bank Regional Director for Central Asia Tatyana Proskuryakova, UzDaily reports.
The meeting was also attended by representatives of the World Bank, including Director of Strategy and Operations for the Europe and Central Asia Region Carolina Sanchez-Paramo and Regional Director for Infrastructure for the Europe and Central Asia Region Charles Cormier.
The main topic of discussion was the joint development of the strategic project Kambarata HPP-1, which is being implemented through the efforts of three countries and plays a key role in ensuring regional energy security and sustainable use of water resources in Central Asia.
Minister of Energy of Uzbekistan Zhurabek Mirzamakhmudov welcomed the meeting participants and emphasized the readiness of the government of Uzbekistan to provide full support in the implementation of the project.
«We are pleased to welcome the participants in trilateral cooperation on the construction of Kambarata HPP-1 in Tashkent. This project will bring significant benefits to the entire region, strengthen energy security, accelerate the transition to a «green» economy and ensure efficient use of water resources», he said.
The head of the energy department of Kyrgyzstan, Taalaibek Ibraev, noted that Kambarata HPP-1 is of significant interest to international financial institutions and development partners. «For Kyrgyzstan, this project is of great importance, since it contributes to strengthening regional cooperation and the long-term development of Central Asia. Today’s round table in Tashkent continues a series of meetings that were previously held in Vienna, Brussels and Washington in 2024, helping to coordinate and speed up the implementation of the project», he emphasized.
Deputy Minister of Energy of Kazakhstan Sungat Yesimkhanov drew attention to the political will of the three countries and their readiness to work together. «Today’s meeting confirms the strengthening of cooperation in the water and energy sector. The implementation of the Kambarata HPP-1 construction project will be the key to long-term stability and will contribute to socio-economic development in the region», he noted.
The governments of the three countries turned to the World Bank with a request for assistance in preparing and financing the project. As part of the technical assistance provided, work is underway to develop a feasibility study, including an assessment of the technical, economic, financial, environmental and social aspects of the project.
World Bank Regional Director for Central Asia Tatyana Proskuryakova said: «The World Bank is pleased to support the three countries’ commitment to ensuring a stable energy future for the region, accelerating its economic growth and improving the quality of life of citizens. We will continue to provide technical support and engage international partners to implement this important project».
During the round table, the parties agreed on the key principles for the joint implementation of the project, approved the main stages and structure of its implementation. Participants emphasized the need for regular meetings at the ministerial level and with the involvement of international donors to coordinate efforts and ensure steady progress.