Astana (TDI): Kazakhstan has donated five locomotives to Kyrgyzstan as part of ongoing cooperation in transport infrastructure, the Kazakhstan Agency of International Development (KazAID) announced.
Two shunting locomotives and 3 mainline locomotives were transferred free of charge to Kyrgyz Temir Jolu, Kyrgyzstan’s national railway company.
The donation was facilitated by KazAID, which aims to strengthen Kazakhstan’s regional relations through collaboration in transport, energy, and infrastructure.
“This step demonstrates the continued successful implementation of official help, contributing to the development and strengthening of fraternal ties between the two countries,” said KazAID Chairman Arken Arystanov.
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The locomotives are likely to considerably enhance freight transportation and maneuverability on Kyrgyzstan’s railways, supporting the country’s economic development and regional connectivity.
Kyrgyzstan has recently taken major measures to modernize its railway infrastructure and expand regional transport links.
In February 2025, Kyrgyzstan inked a public-private partnership deal with US-based consortium All American Rail Group Global Infrastructure Partner LLC for the construction of a $3 billion railway.
The new east-west line will traverse Kyrgyzstan’s mountainous terrain, linking Karakol in the Issyk-Kul region with Makmal in Jalal-Abad.
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In December 2024, construction officially started on the 523-kilometer railway, designed to serve as a major east- west trade corridor.
The project will connect China, Central Asia, the Middle East (including Turkiye, and the European Union.)
Kazakhstan’s locomotive donation aligns with the country’s broader efforts to enhance regional transport infrastructure, strengthening economic relations and facilitating greater trade opportunities.
