IsDB President Visits BAKAD Ring-Road Project in Kazakhstan

Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) President Dr. Muhammad Al-Jasser visited the BAKAD ring-road project in Kazakhstan on September 6, 2024, as part of a mission to strengthen partnership between Kazakhstan and the IsDB, the Jeddah-based multilateral development bank announced via the Saudi Press Agency (SPA). The visit underscored the IsDB’s role in financing major infrastructure that supports economic growth and regional connectivity.

Context and Background

The BAKAD ring-road project is a 66-kilometer highway around Almaty, Kazakhstan’s largest city, designed to carry 38,000 vehicles per day. It is the first large-scale public-private partnership (PPP) in Kazakhstan and is being funded by the IsDB in collaboration with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the Economic Development Bank of Kazakhstan. The project aims to divert traffic from Almaty’s city center, reduce congestion, and stimulate trade across Central Asia.

Key Details of the Visit

During his visit, Dr. Al-Jasser inspected the progress of the BAKAD ring-road, which serves as a vital transport corridor linking major trade routes. The IsDB president’s trip is part of broader efforts to enhance cooperation between the IsDB and Kazakhstan, a key partner in Central Asia. The project exemplifies the IsDB’s commitment to supporting sustainable infrastructure and economic development in its member countries.

Implications for Regional Connectivity

The BAKAD ring-road is expected to significantly improve regional connectivity by facilitating the movement of goods and people across Kazakhstan and beyond. By reducing congestion in Almaty, the project will enhance trade efficiency and promote economic growth in Central Asia. The collaboration between the IsDB, EBRD, and Kazakhstan’s Economic Development Bank highlights the importance of international partnerships in financing large-scale infrastructure.

Vision 2030 Alignment

The IsDB’s involvement in the BAKAD project reflects Saudi Arabia’s broader commitment to global development and its Vision 2030 goals of fostering international cooperation and economic diversification. Through institutions like the IsDB, Saudi Arabia continues to play a pivotal role in supporting infrastructure and trade initiatives that drive prosperity in the region and beyond.

20 Questions

Q1. What is the BAKAD ring-road project?

A1. The BAKAD ring-road is a 66-kilometer highway around Almaty, Kazakhstan, designed to improve traffic flow and stimulate economic growth. It is the first large-scale public-private partnership in Kazakhstan.

Q2. Who visited the BAKAD ring-road project?

A2. Dr. Muhammad Al-Jasser, President of the Islamic Development Bank, visited the project on September 6, 2024, as part of a mission to strengthen partnership between Kazakhstan and the IsDB.

Q3. What is the capacity of the BAKAD ring-road?

A3. The ring-road has a capacity of 38,000 vehicles per day, which will help divert traffic from Almaty’s city center and reduce congestion.

Q4. Which organizations are funding the BAKAD project?

A4. The project is funded by the Islamic Development Bank, in collaboration with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development and the Economic Development Bank of Kazakhstan.

Q5. Why is the BAKAD ring-road important for Kazakhstan?

A5. It serves as a vital transport corridor linking major trade routes, stimulating economic growth, and enhancing regional connectivity across Kazakhstan and Central Asia.

Q6. What is the significance of the project being a public-private partnership?

A6. It represents Kazakhstan’s first large-scale PPP, setting a precedent for future infrastructure projects and attracting private investment.

Q7. How does the BAKAD ring-road benefit Almaty?

A7. By diverting traffic from the city center, it reduces congestion, improves air quality, and enhances the quality of life for residents.

Q8. What role does the IsDB play in the project?

A8. The IsDB is a key financier, providing funding and technical expertise to ensure the successful completion of the ring-road.

Q9. What are the expected economic impacts of the BAKAD ring-road?

A9. It is expected to boost trade, reduce transportation costs, and stimulate economic growth in Kazakhstan and the wider Central Asian region.

Q10. How does the BAKAD project align with the IsDB’s mission?

A10. The project aligns with the IsDB’s mission to promote economic development and regional integration among its member countries through infrastructure financing.

Q11. What other projects is the IsDB involved in in Kazakhstan?

A11. The IsDB supports various projects in Kazakhstan, including infrastructure, energy, and social development, as part of its partnership with the country.

Q12. When is the BAKAD ring-road expected to be completed?

A12. The project is under construction, with completion expected in the near future, though an exact date has not been announced.

Q13. How does the BAKAD ring-road enhance regional connectivity?

A13. It links major trade routes, facilitating the movement of goods and people across Kazakhstan and Central Asia, thereby promoting trade and economic integration.

Q14. What is the length of the BAKAD ring-road?

A14. The ring-road is 66 kilometers long, encircling Almaty to provide an efficient bypass for through traffic.

Q15. Who is Dr. Muhammad Al-Jasser?

A15. Dr. Muhammad Al-Jasser is the President of the Islamic Development Bank, a multilateral development institution based in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Q16. What is the Islamic Development Bank?

A16. The IsDB is a multilateral development bank that fosters economic development and social progress in its member countries and Muslim communities worldwide.

Q17. How does the BAKAD project reflect Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030?

A17. It reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to international cooperation and sustainable development, key pillars of Vision 2030, through the IsDB’s global initiatives.

Q18. What are the environmental benefits of the BAKAD ring-road?

A18. By reducing congestion and diverting traffic from the city center, the ring-road helps lower emissions and improve air quality in Almaty.

Q19. What challenges did the BAKAD project face?

A19. As with any large infrastructure project, challenges included securing financing and coordinating among international partners, but these have been addressed through collaboration.

Q20. What does the BAKAD project signify for future IsDB-Kazakhstan cooperation?

A20. It strengthens the partnership and sets the stage for further joint projects in infrastructure and economic development, benefiting both parties.

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