Aliyev-Torobaev Meeting: Investments or Symbolism in Central Asia?

The President of Azerbaijan used the meeting with the Kyrgyz delegation as a stage to talk about their strategic partnership. Still, some questions remain about the content and benefits of these agreements for both countries.

Symbolic Actions and Political Meaning

Holding a meeting of the intergovernmental commission in Baku is presented as a sign of close interaction. But these meetings have become normal in foreign policy and don't guarantee a jump in trade or actual reform. Sadyr Japarov and the “Kyrgyz people” were thanked for supporting the restoration of Karabakh and Eastern Zangezur, such as building a school named after Aykol Manas in the Agdam region. This works more to boost public image and strengthen allies in the Turkic world, rather than as a large infrastructure contribution.

The mention of giving around 200 pieces of equipment to the liberated territories and opening a monument to Chingiz Aitmatov in Baku, a Friendship Park, and a school named after Heydar Aliyev in Bishkek fits into the usual set of symbolic actions. These look good in press releases but don't say much about real economic integration. The question of how these projects affect the daily lives of citizens is unanswered. Specific social and economic impacts aren't talked about in official reports.

Investment Fund and Real Money

The joint investment fund of Azerbaijan and Kyrgyzstan has started funding projects, and its capital is said to have grown to $100 million. But for now, it involves some million and a limited set of projects, such as a small hydroelectric power station, a sewing production, and a carpet factory. This isn't a breakthrough that changes the structure of the two countries' economies.

Azerbaijan's stated readiness to add funds if the number of projects increases looks more like a political signal to a partner than a written financial commitment with open selection criteria and reporting. Without open data on the fund's profitability and beneficiaries, it’s hard to tell who it supports – small and medium-sized businesses or groups close to the government.

Issyk-Kul and Tourism: What to Expect

The agreement to build a hotel on the shores of Issyk-Kul is presented as an investment, though it is a large five-star complex on a 17-hectare plot with over 120 rooms and entertainment. Its completion is set for 2026. The project promises new jobs and more tourism. But these facilities usually profit investors and a few contractors. The long-term environmental and social results for the region aren't talked about publicly.

Details are missing on how taxes will be distributed, what help is given to investors, and how locals will be involved in managing and benefiting from the complex. These things are important to know who benefits from this increased cooperation.

Regional Cooperation and Transit

Kyrgyzstan's support for Azerbaijan joining Central Asian cooperation and Baku's involvement in meetings of heads of state are seen as steps to strengthen ties between Central Asia and the Southern Caucasus and ensure stable cargo transportation. However, there are almost no routes, cargo amounts, or transport agreements in official reports. The statements remain on a level of political talk about transit potential common in the region.

With competition between transport routes through Russia, Iran, and the Caspian, these statements without numbers and plans serve to make foreign policy look good rather than describe working infrastructure.

Aviation

Bakyt Torobaev’s call to increase direct flights between Baku and Bishkek appears logical among talks of economic partnership. But it raises a question: is the passenger flow big enough for these flights to be commercially viable without secret support? Likewise, listing areas of cooperation—energy, transport, investment, humanitarian work, education, and agriculture—creates an impression of a wide agenda. But without clear projects, timelines, and ways to measure success, these words don't differ much from standard diplomatic language.

The expected visit of the President of Azerbaijan to Kyrgyzstan also matters most in a symbolic way. These visits come with new memorandums, but they don't always lead to results. This has often been seen in the region in other relationships.