The EDB presents the Turkistan Airport project at the 7th UNECE International Public-Private Partnerships Forum
Almaty, 4 May 2023. Conrad Albrecht, Managing Director and Head of the Directorate of Sustainability at the Eurasian Development Bank (EDB), participated in the 7th UNECE International Public-Private Partnerships Forum.
The Forum discussed current and future challenges and opportunities at the global, national and city levels, with a particular emphasis on the connection between green and digital transformation in public-private partnerships and infrastructure projects that contribute to Sustainable Development Goals.
During the event, Conrad Albrecht showcased the Turkistan Airport project in Kazakhstan, which garnered significant interest from the participants. The project offers substantial benefits and aligns with the indicators suggested by the PPP Evaluation Methodology for the SDGs
It aims to improve the region’s transport infrastructure, promote Turkistan as a cultural and tourist landmark in Kazakhstan, and ensure social equality and accessibility of services. Subsidised flight fares are implemented to enhance social justice, while the airport building itself has been designed with the needs of people with disabilities in mind.
The project also places great emphasis on economic efficiency and fiscal sustainability. Adhering to the principle of “zero tolerance for corruption” ensures transparency and effectiveness. Additionally, the creation of jobs and increased tax revenues contribute to the economic development and investment attractiveness of the region.
Conrad Albrecht highlighted the project’s commitment to environmental sustainability and resilience to climate change. It fully complies with Kazakhstan’s environmental legislation and incorporates innovative environmental measures such as waste management programmes, reductions in air emissions and water consumption, and water reuse for technical purposes.
Furthermore, the Turkestan Airport project demonstrates its potential for replication and scalability. It is being implemented in partnership with a major private investor that has a successful portfolio of similar projects. This makes the project replicable and feasible for regions seeking rapid tourism development.
“The EDB remains at the forefront in implementing projects that contribute to the sustainable development of regional infrastructure. The Bank will continue to work actively in partnership with public and private institutions to create innovative projects that align with Sustainable Development Goals and benefit communities,” said Conrad Albrecht.
The UNECE International Public-Private Partnerships Forum is an annual event to discuss and promote public-private partnerships for sustainable development. It brings together leading experts, governmental and private institutions, and academia to share experiences and find solutions to global challenges.
During the forum, the UNECE PPP and Infrastructure Award 2023 was announced. An international jury has selected projects that align with the PPP Evaluation Methodology for the SDGs.
Additional Information:
The Eurasian Development Bank is an international financial institution promoting integration and development in its member countries. For more than 17 years, the Bank has worked to strengthen and expand economic ties and foster comprehensive development in its member countries – Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Russia, and Tajikistan. The EDB's charter capital totals US $7 billion. 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.
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