BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 27. The Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) is set to launch two new projects in partnership with Kyrgyzstan, a source at KOICA told Trend.
One project aims to establish a post-harvest management system to strengthen the value chain of agricultural products.
"The Korean government has consistently implemented various projects aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity and regional development in Kyrgyzstan, serving as one of key development partners in the country's agricultural sector," the source stated.
The second project seeks to improve public administration in Kyrgyzstan by building capacity in national information technology and supporting digital transformation.
"Korea has consistently backed Kyrgyzstan's efforts toward digitalization, with both nations sharing their perspectives on project outcomes during high-level meetings, thereby strengthening trust and expectations between the two countries," the source added.
In addition to ongoing and new initiatives in agriculture and public administration, KOICA plans to explore projects focused on green environments and energy in the coming years, responding to the increasing development needs of the Kyrgyz government.
The agency has actively supported Kyrgyzstan in various areas to help achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Aligned with Kyrgyzstan's development strategy and the key cooperation areas established in the Country Partnership Strategy (CPS) for 2021-2025, KOICA has identified prioritized sectors and new initiatives, including effective and participatory digital public administration, inclusive and sustainable rural development, and creating a safe, healthy, and green society.
Recently launched bilateral projects include:
-Development of a National Centralized AMI System for Improving the Energy System of Kyrgyzstan (2023-2026/$10.5 million): This project aims to enhance the efficiency of the power distribution system and reduce high power-line loss rates, with completion scheduled for 2026.
-Electric Vehicle Transition Project for Public Service Fleet to Realize Green Mobility in Kyrgyzstan (2024-2027 / $11 million): This project aims to provide electric vehicles and charging stations to public institutions while establishing the necessary infrastructure to address climate change. It also focuses on developing an implementation plan and building the capacity of Kyrgyz stakeholders for transitioning to electric vehicles.
The Korean government designates priority countries for cooperation every five years to enhance the effectiveness of its Official Development Assistance (ODA) through a strategy of "selection and concentration."
Korea selected Kyrgyzstan as a priority partner for its ODA programs in 2021, underscoring its importance as a key partner in Central Asia. Through this cooperation, the countries aim to enhance sustainable development and address mutual priorities such as economic growth, capacity building, and social development in Kyrgyzstan.