EDB’s Arman Ahunbayev to join the “Fixing the Climate Finance” session at the 8th CAREC Think Tank Development Forum
Almaty, 27 August 2024. Arman Ahunbaev, Head of the Eurasian Development Bank’s Center for Infrastructure and Industrial Research, is set to give a speech on “Financial Solutions to Close the Investment Gap in the Drinking Water and Sanitations Infrastructure in Central Asia” at the 8th CAREC Think Tank Development Forum.
Arman will present data from the EDB's Center for Infrastructure and Industrial Research’s study on Drinking Water Supply and Sanitation in Central Asia, making an emphasis on the scope of financial support and investment needed for Central Asia to ensure the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 6 (UN SDG 6) by 2030.
In Central Asia, the challenges of access to and treatment of drinking water are dire, with 10 million people, or 14% of the population, having no access to safe drinking water. A comparison of planned (anticipated) and projected 2025–2030 financing commitments leads to the conclusion that the region is facing a deficit of more than $12 billion over the period, or about $2 billion per year.
The CA countries are facing a major challenge: they need to raise financing for their water and sanitation sector. The implementation of investment projects in the water and sanitation sector can have a significant economic impact. These projects are vital for public health, education, and social well-being. Investments in drinking water supply and treatment infrastructure produce a considerable multiplier effect for the economy. Each dollar invested in CA projects designed to upgrade that infrastructure will, on average, generate three additional dollars.
The Eurasian Development Bank together with the CAREC Institute, the Asia Development Bank and other partners are pleased to announce the 8th CAREC Think Tank Development Forum (CTTDF), set to take place at the Ritz-Carlton in Almaty, Kazakhstan, from August 27-28, 2024. This year’s forum, themed “The Climate Challenge: Thinking Beyond Borders for Collective Action,” will bring together policymakers, experts, and leaders from across Asia to advance regional cooperation on climate action.
Key Event Highlights:
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Opening Ceremony: Insightful addresses by the Director of the CAREC Institute, the Vice President of the Asian Development Bank, and a high-level official from the Ministry of National Economy, Kazakhstan.
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In-depth Sessions: Engage in discussions on global climate initiatives, inclusive climate governance, sustainable development, and innovative climate technologies.
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Local and Regional Perspectives: Learn from country-specific case studies and regional strategies to address climate challenges in Asia.
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Innovative Research: Discover cutting-edge research from CAREC member think tanks focused on accelerating climate solutions.
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Networking Opportunities: Connect with thought leaders and policymakers through a variety of networking sessions and collaborative forums.
The Forum features presentations, panel discussions, case studies, and interactive sessions designed to foster dialogue and develop actionable strategies for climate resilience in the CAREC region.
Additional Information:
The Eurasian Development Bank (EDB) is a multilateral development bank investing in Eurasia. For more than 18 years, the Bank has worked to strengthen and expand economic ties and foster comprehensive development in its member countries. The EDB's charter capital totals $7 bn. Its portfolio consists principally of projects with an integration effect in transport infrastructure, digital systems, green energy, agriculture, manufacturing, and mechanical engineering. The Bank’s operations are guided by the UN Sustainable Development Goals and ESG principles.
The CAREC Institute is a jointly owned and governed by 11 member countries, is a key knowledge support arm of the CAREC Program, headquartered in Urumqi, the People’s Republic of China. It focuses on sustainable development through evidence-based research, capacity building, and knowledge dissemination. By facilitating regional cooperation and integration, the Institute helps drive practical solutions and policies that promote economic growth and shared prosperity across the CAREC region.
The EDB Media Centre:
+7 (727) 244 40 44, ext. 6148 or 3730