REDP-2: Working visit of the World Bank to the Batken region

From December 10 to 11, 2025, the Head of the World Bank Office in the Kyrgyz Republic, Hugh Riddell, conducted a working visit to the Batken region as part of the implementation of the “Second Regional Economic Development Project in the Batken Region” (REDP-2). The purpose of the visit was to review the progress of project activities, monitor the results achieved, and hold meetings on site.

During the working trip, Hugh Riddell was accompanied by the Executive Director of the Community Development and Investment Agency of the Kyrgyz Republic (ARIS), Mars Naspekov, REDP-2 Coordinator Gulmira Dzhumabekova, and a project team.

During the visit, the delegation visited a number of social and economic infrastructure facilities implemented within the framework of REDP-2. In the city of Batken, the Zhashtyk and Zhenish parks were inspected, created in order to improve the urban environment and create comfortable public spaces for residents.

The delegation also visited schools and kindergartens built and restored as part of the fourth component of the project - CERC. During the visits, special attention was paid to learning conditions, the safety of facilities, and ensuring children's continued access to education in border areas.

In addition, as part of the working trip, agricultural facilities were visited, implemented with the support of the project, aimed at developing local production, supporting farmers, and creating sustainable sources of income for the population.

During the visit, meetings were held with representatives of local governments, contractors, and project beneficiaries. The delegation monitored the progress of project activities, discussed issues of quality and timing of work, and also received direct feedback from residents on the results of the implementation of REDP-2 and its impact on the daily life of communities