LocationsUNDP and the Jalal-Abad regional administration supports the development of cross-border economic cooperation
November 6, 2025
UNDP Aid for Trade project beneficiary presents her products at the forum's exhibition
Manas, 6 November 2025 – The International Forum “Manas Expo 2025” on the Development of Cooperation, Cross-Border Trade, and Investment Interaction, aimed at strengthening economic partnerships between the countries of Central Asia and other states, was held in Manas.
The event was organized by the Office of the Plenipotentiary Representative of the President of the Kyrgyz Republic in the Jalal-Abad Region and the Regional Investment Council, with the support of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the International Organization for Migration (IOM), Bakai Bank, and other national partners.
The forum brought together representatives of government agencies, international organizations, business associations, and entrepreneurs from Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and other countries.
Participants of the forum
The Plenipotentiary Representative of the President of the Kyrgyz Republic in the Jalal-Abad region Tilek Tekebaev expressed his gratitude to the forum participants, noting that the event became an important platform that would contribute to the development of not only the city of Manas but also the entire Jalal-Abad Region.
“Our main goal is to support entrepreneurship, open new industries, and strengthen interregional ties. Events such as these build trust between regions, and international cooperation reaches a new level,” noted Tilek Tekebaev.
Tilek Tekebaev, The Plenipotentiary Representative of the President of the Kyrgyz Republic in the Jalal-Abad region
During the forum, participants discussed ways to increase the regions’ export potential, strengthen business ties, develop women's and youth entrepreneurship, cross-border trade, and implement green and innovative solutions in business practices. Projects and initiatives demonstrating the region's investment opportunities were presented at the exhibition.
Alexandra Solovieva, UNDP Resident Representative in the Kyrgyz Republic, noted: “Maintaining sustainable economic growth requires not only investment but also strong partnerships. By supporting national and regional potential, we are jointly creating the foundation for the development of small and medium-sized businesses, expanding export opportunities, and improving people’s well-being.”
UNDP actively boosts the development of the Jalal-Abad region by supporting export-oriented sectors such as dried fruit production, honey production, handicrafts, and tourism. Through joint efforts with local authorities and partners, new jobs and value chains are being created, while the investment climate in the region is being strengthened. UNDP also supports initiatives in healthcare, digitalization, climate resilience, biodiversity conservation, and disaster risk reduction.
Alexandra Solovieva, UNDP Resident Representative in the Kyrgyz Republic
In his welcoming speech, Myktybek Osmonaliev, Coordinator of the Secretariats of the Regional Investment Councils for the Southern Regions, noted the importance of public-private dialogue in promoting investment in the country:
“Regional investment councils have become an effective tool for advancing reforms and supporting small and medium-sized businesses. Through them, businesses have a voice, and the government receives feedback. It is this dialogue that helps shape tangible support measures—whether simplifying procedures, improving infrastructure, or attracting investment.”
Myktybek Osmonaliev, Coordinator of the Secretariats of the Regional Investment Councils for the Southern Regions
The forum’s results confirmed the high level of investor interest in the region and the willingness of all parties to further expand partnerships. UNDP intends to continue providing expert and technical support to regional initiatives aimed at sustainable development, economic growth, and strengthening cross-border cooperation.
The Manas Expo 2025 forum was held as part of the UNDP project “Strengthening Capacities of Institutions and Border Communities of Kyrgyzstan for Increased Cooperation with Uzbekistan”. The project is being implemented by UNDP, UNODC, and IOM with financial support from the UN Peacebuilding Fund.
Participants of the forum
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