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	<title>Last news - Сentralasianlight.org</title>
	<link>https://centralasianlight.org/rss/</link>
	<description></description>
	<pubDate>Sat, 14 Mar 2026 05:53:51 +0600</pubDate>
	<copyright>centralasianlight.org</copyright>
	<ttl>60</ttl>
	<item>
		<title>Turkmenistan has Rapidly Increased Gasoline Production</title>
		<description><![CDATA[ASHGABAT — Turkmenistan is demonstrating steady growth in its oil refining sector: the gasoline production plan was fulfilled at 122.7% for January–February 2026, according to data from the State Concern "Turkmennebit", Orient.tm reports.

Increased production is ensured by the coordinated operation of key industry facilities:


	The country's oil refineries;
	The natural gas-to-gasoline plant in Akhal velayat.


The foundation of this success has been the overfulfillment of hydrocarbon extraction targets, which has enabled stable growth in refining capacity and fuel output.


	
		
			
			Indicator
			
			
			Plan fulfillment
			
		
	
	
		
			
			Crude oil production
			
			
			107.3%
			
		
		
			
			Oil refining
			
			
			107.1%
			
		
		
			
			Gasoline production
			
			
			122.7%
			
		
		
			
			Diesel fuel output
			
			
			106.4%
			
		
		
			
			Lubricating oils production
			
			
			102.7%
			
		
		
			
			Liquefied gas production
			
			
			119.7%
			
		
		
			
			Natural and associated gas]]></description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 13 Mar 2026 21:09:21 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/turkmenistan-has-rapidly-increased-gasoline-production/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/turkmenistan-has-rapidly-increased-gasoline-production/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Tajikistan and European Companies to Strengthen Cooperation on CASA-1000 Project</title>
		<description><![CDATA[DUSHANBE — A consortium comprising HITACHI ENERGY (Sweden) and Cobra Instalaciones y Servicios S.A. (Spain) will complete technical maintenance of converter substations in Tajikistan and Pakistan by May 2028 under the CASA-1000 project, the Ministry of Energy and Water Resources of Tajikistan announced, Asiaplus.tj reports.

Project implementation issues were discussed at a high-level meeting in Ludvika, Sweden, attended by representatives of participating countries and contracting organizations.

"Tajikistan attaches particular importance to the successful implementation of CASA-1000 as a key initiative for regional energy integration," emphasized Minister of Energy and Water Resources Daler Juma, who led the Tajik delegation.


	
		
			
			Parameter
			
			
			Value
			
		
	
	
		
			
			Project cost
			
			
			$1.16 billion
			
		
		
			
			Transmission line length
			
			
			1,387 km
			
		
		
			
			Converter substations
			
			
			2 ("Sangtuda",]]></description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 13 Mar 2026 21:00:03 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/tajikistan-and-european-companies-to-strengthen-cooperation-on-casa-1000-project/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/tajikistan-and-european-companies-to-strengthen-cooperation-on-casa-1000-project/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Uzbekistan Approves Preferential Trade Agreement with Afghanistan</title>
		<description><![CDATA[The President of Uzbekistan approved the Preferential Trade Agreement with Afghanistan by decree, Gazeta.uz reports.

The Ministry of Investment, Industry, and Trade, as well as the Customs Committee under the Ministry of Economy and Finance of Uzbekistan, have been appointed responsible for implementing the international agreement.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been instructed to notify the Afghan side of Uzbekistan's completion of the domestic procedures required for the entry into force of the international agreement.

The Preferential Trade Agreement between Uzbekistan and Afghanistan, as well as the bilateral cooperation program in trade, economic, and industrial spheres for 2025-2026, were signed in Tashkent last June.

At the same time, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, at a meeting with Acting Minister of Industry and Trade of Afghanistan Nuriddin Azizi, outlined the priority of strengthening the legal framework for economic cooperation with Kabul.

During recent talks,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 13 Mar 2026 16:35:14 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/uzbekistan-approves-preferential-trade-agreement-with-afghanistan/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/uzbekistan-approves-preferential-trade-agreement-with-afghanistan/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Kazakhstan Maintains Positive Net Migration Balance</title>
		<description><![CDATA[In 2025, 23,761 people arrived in Kazakhstan, while 7,608 departed.

The positive balance of external migration amounted to 16,153 people, Kazpravda.kz reports, citing the National Statistics Bureau of Kazakhstan.

This marks the third consecutive year of positive migration balance in Kazakhstan.

Compared to 2024, the number of people leaving Kazakhstan decreased by 40.2%, while the number of people arriving in the country decreased by 18.9%.

The main migration exchange occurs with the CIS countries, accounting for 81.8% of all arrivals and 71.8% of departures. Among other countries, the largest number of arrivals was recorded from China, Mongolia, and Germany, while the most common destinations for citizens were Germany, Poland, and the United States.

Among the country's regions, the largest number of those arriving for permanent residence chose the Almaty region (5,754 people), the city of Almaty (4,068 people),]]></description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 13 Mar 2026 16:19:50 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kazakhstan-maintains-positive-net-migration-balance/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kazakhstan-maintains-positive-net-migration-balance/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Kumtor Gold Company Reports Record $1.43 Billion Revenue Amid Rising Production Costs</title>
		<description><![CDATA[BISHKEK — Kumtor Gold Company has published its production and financial results for 2025. Despite increasingly challenging mining conditions and rising operational costs, the enterprise maintained high profitability thanks to favorable conditions on the global gold market, Akchabar.kg reports.


	
		
			
			Indicator
			
			
			Value
			
		
	
	
		
			
			Gold produced
			
			
			388,418 ounces (12,081 kg)
			
		
		
			
			All-in sustaining cost
			
			
			$1,884 per ounce
			
		
		
			
			Average selling price
			
			
			$3,711 per ounce
			
		
		
			
			Price range
			
			
			$2,882.70 – $4,612.95 per ounce
			
		
	


The company explained that increased costs are driven by two key factors:


	More complex mining operations: At the Kumtor mine,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 13 Mar 2026 16:11:45 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kumtor-gold-company-reports-record-1.43-billion-revenue-amid-rising-production-costs/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kumtor-gold-company-reports-record-1.43-billion-revenue-amid-rising-production-costs/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Tajikistan Bets on &quot;Smart Solutions&quot; for Water Resource Management</title>
		<description><![CDATA[DUSHANBE — The development of digital technologies — from satellite monitoring to artificial intelligence — is shaping a new model of water resource management, according to information from the Secretariat of the Dushanbe Water Process, as reported by Khovar.

The integration of real-time sensors and predictive analytics enables a shift from reactive responses to science-based water resource management.

"Smart solutions ensure accurate assessment of water reserves, early warning of droughts and floods, and reduced losses in water supply systems," the statement notes.


	
		
			
			Area
			
			
			Impact
			
		
	
	
		
			
			Monitoring
			
			
			Accurate assessment of surface and groundwater reserves
			
		
		
			
			Safety
			
			
			Early warning of droughts and floods
			
		
		
			
			Infrastructure
			
			
			Reduced water losses,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Thu, 12 Mar 2026 19:29:19 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/tajikistan-bets-on-smart-solutions-for-water-resource-management/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/tajikistan-bets-on-smart-solutions-for-water-resource-management/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Turkmenistan Unveils Strategy to Transform Caspian Region into Continental Transport and Energy Hub</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Turkmenistan, which assumed the rotating chairmanship of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) on January 1, 2026, has announced a strategic initiative to transform the Caspian region into a key international transport, transit, and energy hub of continental significance. This is stated in the CIS Presidency Concept published on March 11 on the website of the CIS Executive Committee, Trend news agency reports.

The document outlines the vector of cooperation for 2026 and emphasizes three key directions:


	
		
			
			Priority Area
			
			
			Key Tasks
			
		
	
	
		
			
			Transport &amp; Logistics
			
			
			Development of sustainable corridors linking the Caspian and Black Sea regions; expanding access to Middle Eastern markets
			
		
		
			
			Energy
			
			
			Strengthening multilateral partnership in hydrocarbon extraction, transportation, and supply diversification
			
		
		
			
			Trade Integration
			
			
			Simplifying customs procedures, harmonizing standards,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Thu, 12 Mar 2026 19:08:51 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/turkmenistan-unveils-strategy-to-transform-caspian-region-into-continental-transport-and-energy-hub/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/turkmenistan-unveils-strategy-to-transform-caspian-region-into-continental-transport-and-energy-hub/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Chinese Company to Drill 30 Gas Wells in Uzbekistan</title>
		<description><![CDATA[TASHKENT — The state-owned company Uzbekneftegaz and the Chinese drilling company XIBU (part of CNPC) have signed a contract to drill 30 wells in Uzbekistan in 2026–2027, Gazeta.uz reports.

The new agreement marks a long-term partnership: a total of 105 wells are planned to be drilled by 2029. The document was signed following a working visit by Uzbekneftegaz Chairman of the Board Abdugani Sanginov to China, where negotiations were held with leading players in the Chinese oil and gas industry.

Ten modern drilling rigs, each with a lifting capacity of 450 tons, will be delivered to Uzbekistan to implement the project.

The wells will be drilled in promising areas identified through seismic surveys. Complex geological conditions will require the use of advanced drilling technologies and enhanced safety measures.

Uzbekneftegaz emphasized that the project is aimed at:


	Expanding geological exploration;
	Increasing proven natural gas reserves;
	Strengthening the country's energy security.


The Chinese]]></description>
		<pubDate>Thu, 12 Mar 2026 18:40:19 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/chinese-company-to-drill-30-gas-wells-in-uzbekistan/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/chinese-company-to-drill-30-gas-wells-in-uzbekistan/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Kazakhstan have Two More Billionaires</title>
		<description><![CDATA[In 2026, two Kazakhstani entrepreneurs, Nurlan Smagulov (on photo) and Aydin Rakhimbayev, were included on the list of the world's billionaires for the first time, Forbes.kz reports.

Forbes Global has published its list of the world's billionaires for 2026. It includes over 3,400 businessmen with an estimated net worth of $1 billion or more.

The American publication estimated Nurlan Smagulov's net worth (No. 8 on Forbes Kazakhstan's 2025 list of the 75 richest businessmen in Kazakhstan, with a net worth of $990 million) at $1.3 billion, placing him 2,858th.

Aydin Rakhimbayev, according to Forbes.com, has a net worth of $1.1 billion, placing him 3,185th on the global billionaire list. In the 2025 Forbes Kazakhstan list of the 75 richest businessmen in Kazakhstan, he ranked 10th with a net worth of $967 million.

Among Kazakhstani entrepreneurs on the Forbes list, Vyacheslav Kim retained his position as the country's richest businessman.]]></description>
		<pubDate>Thu, 12 Mar 2026 18:26:16 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kazakhstan-have-two-more-billionaires/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kazakhstan-have-two-more-billionaires/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>National Bank of Kyrgyzstan Raises 2026 GDP Growth Forecast to 10%</title>
		<description><![CDATA[The National Bank of Kyrgyzstan has upgraded its economic outlook for 2026: real GDP growth is now expected at around 10%, up from the previously projected 9%, according to the regulator's monetary policy report, Economist.kg reports.

The adjustment reflects sustained activity in the real sector over the past three years. For the first 11 months of 2025, the economy expanded by 10.2%.

Key growth drivers for 2026 include:


	Industry — commissioning of new capacities and production expansion;
	Trade — growth of e-commerce stimulating wholesale and retail segments;
	Construction — increased domestic capital investment;
	Services — maintaining a ~50% share of total GDP.


The main stimulus remains strong domestic demand, supported by rising real household incomes and a budget surplus.

The National Bank has set an inflation target of ~10% for 2026, assuming no new external shocks. Over the medium term, the regulator aims to bring inflation back to the 5–7% corridor.

To contain price pressures,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Thu, 12 Mar 2026 18:08:19 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/national-bank-of-kyrgyzstan-raises-2026-gdp-growth-forecast-to-10/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/national-bank-of-kyrgyzstan-raises-2026-gdp-growth-forecast-to-10/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Turkmenistan Loses Tourist Appeal as Barriers Mount and &apos;Gates of Hell&apos; Fades</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Turkmenistan, for many years a "closed treasure" for Russian travelers, is increasingly facing disappointing reviews from tourists, ABN24 reported in an article on March 10.

Entering the country has become a difficult task: a visa is required, numerous documents are required, and entry is only possible as part of an organized group. At the border, tourists face hours of checks and up to six different documents.

The main tourist attraction, the Darvaza gas crater, is losing its charm. The flame, which burned for over 50 years, now barely flickers. This is a serious blow to the tourism industry: this unique spectacle, unparalleled anywhere in the world, is in danger of disappearing.

Ashgabat, listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the world's most white marble city, creates a surreal impression: impeccable architecture and empty streets. Real life bustles on the outskirts, while tourists navigate prearranged routes under a virtual curfew. Photography of many sites is prohibited.]]></description>
		<pubDate>Wed, 11 Mar 2026 21:05:12 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/turkmenistan-loses-tourist-appeal-as-barriers-mount-and-gates-of-hell-fades/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/turkmenistan-loses-tourist-appeal-as-barriers-mount-and-gates-of-hell-fades/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>45 Organized Crime Groups Uncovered in Uzbekistan in Two Months</title>
		<description><![CDATA[In January-February 2026, 45 organized crime groups were uncovered in Uzbekistan, the press service of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Uzbekistan reported, according to Gazeta.uz.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs, the State Security Service, the Prosecutor General's Office, and other law enforcement agencies jointly conducted 6,025 special operational activities, including 806 night raids and 2,876 searches.

A total of 116 cases of fraud, 315 cases of illegal weapons possession, 86 cases of gambling establishments, 40 cases of human trafficking, and 790 cases of brothel management and HIV transmission were uncovered, according to the report. 533 individuals previously on the wanted list were detained.

In 315 weapons-related cases, 4,570 bladed weapons were seized, including 50 bats, 72 brass knuckles, and 4,004 stabbing and cutting objects. An additional 5,814 rounds of ammunition and 3.7 kg of explosives were seized.

Forty-seven social media accounts "influencing crime,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Wed, 11 Mar 2026 20:41:03 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/45-organized-crime-groups-uncovered-in-uzbekistan-in-two-months/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/45-organized-crime-groups-uncovered-in-uzbekistan-in-two-months/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>China to Build Nine Border Facilities on Tajikistan&apos;s Border with Afghanistan</title>
		<description><![CDATA[China will build nine border facilities in the border regions of Tajikistan with Afghanistan. The total construction cost is over 550 million somoni ($57.36 million) and will be fully covered by the Chinese government. The Tajik side, in turn, is responsible for exempting the project from taxes and customs duties, as well as other mandatory payments, Asiaplus.tj reports.

The draft agreement was recently reviewed and adopted at a session of the Tajik parliament.

The project aims to strengthen the logistical capabilities of the Tajik Border Troops.

Murodali Rajabzoda, First Deputy Chairman of the State Committee for National Security of Tajikistan (SCNS), announced at a parliamentary session that the project is planned for three phases, and exchange letters for the second phase have already been signed.

According to the exchange letters, the total construction area is 17,109 square meters,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Wed, 11 Mar 2026 20:52:31 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/china-to-build-nine-border-facilities-on-tajikistans-border-with-afghanistan/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/china-to-build-nine-border-facilities-on-tajikistans-border-with-afghanistan/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Kazakhstan&apos;s Oil and Gas Condensate Output in 2026 May Fall Short of Targets</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Kazakhstan's production of oil and gas condensate in 2026 may fall below planned levels, Energy Minister Yerlan Akkenzhenov stated on the sidelines of the Mazhilis (parliamentary lower house), Kazinform reports.

"According to the economic development plan, the target figure is 100.5 million tons [for 2026]. I believe that due to the events that occurred at the end of last year and the beginning of this year — I mean the attacks on the CPC and Tengiz — [production] will be in the range of 96–98 million tons," Yerlan Akkenzhenov said.

The minister clarified that this figure refers to the combined production of crude oil, gas condensate, and light hydrocarbon mixtures.

The revised forecast is linked to two key incidents affecting critical infrastructure in the oil and gas sector:


	
		
			
			Date
			
			
			Facility
			
			
			Incident
			
			
			Consequences
			
		
	
	
		
			
			January 2026
			
			
			Tengiz field
			
			
			Two fires at power generators
			
			
			Fires extinguished;]]></description>
		<pubDate>Wed, 11 Mar 2026 20:32:13 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kazakhstans-oil-and-gas-condensate-output-in-2026-may-fall-short-of-targets/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kazakhstans-oil-and-gas-condensate-output-in-2026-may-fall-short-of-targets/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>National Bank of Kyrgyzstan Deploys $500 Million Since Start of 2026 to Stabilize National Currency</title>
		<description><![CDATA[The National Bank of Kyrgyzstan has once again entered the currency market with an intervention. On March 10, it sold $140 million, marking its fourth such operation since the beginning of the year, Akchbar.kg reports.

According to the regulator, of this amount:


	$36 million were sold with settlement on the transaction date (spot);
	$104 million were sold with settlement on a date different from the transaction date (forward).


All operations were conducted at the exchange rate of 87.45 soms per US dollar.

This marks the fourth currency sale by the National Bank in 2026. Previous interventions this year included:


	
		
			
			Date
			
			
			Amount Sold
			
		
	
	
		
			
			January 19
			
			
			$134.05 million
			
		
		
			
			February 6
			
			
			$109.95 million
			
		
		
			
			February 26
			
			
			$162.55 million
			
		
		
			
			March 10
			
			
			$140 million
			
		
	


For comparison, regulatory activity was significantly lower during the same period last year. In early 2025,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Wed, 11 Mar 2026 20:20:41 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/national-bank-of-kyrgyzstan-deploys-500-million-since-start-of-2026-to-stabilize-national-currency/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/national-bank-of-kyrgyzstan-deploys-500-million-since-start-of-2026-to-stabilize-national-currency/</guid>
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	<item>
		<title>From Declarations To Corridors: Rethinking Economic Integration In Central Asia</title>
		<description><![CDATA[For more than three decades, economic integration in Central Asia has been shaped by ambitious declarations, multilateral communiqués, and periodic summit diplomacy. Yet tangible outcomes have often lagged behind political rhetoric. The emerging shift from abstract integration models toward corridor-based, infrastructure-driven cooperation marks a potentially decisive turning point. Recent developments between Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan—notably the revival of the Almaty–Bishkek Economic Corridor with support from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the creation of industrial and logistics hubs along their shared border—suggest that Central Asia may finally be moving from declarative regionalism to functional economic integration. 

The article is published below is been writen by Rafis Abazov, PhD, a director of the Institute for Green and Sustainable Development at Kazakh National Agrarian Research University for Central Asia-Caucasus Institute and has been published in its web-site.]]></description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2026 23:50:43 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/from-declarations-to-corridors-rethinking-economic-integration-in-central-asia-1/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/from-declarations-to-corridors-rethinking-economic-integration-in-central-asia-1/</guid>
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	<item>
		<title>Turkmenistan  Intends to Increase Oil, Gas Condensate, and Iiquefied Gas Production</title>
		<description><![CDATA[A meeting dedicated to the results of the first two months of 2026 and the implementation of upcoming tasks was held at the central building of Turkmenistan's oil and gas complex, Turkmenportal.com.

The meeting discussed the objectives set for the country's oil and gas complex at the regular meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan, as reported on the website oilgas.gov.tm.

The need was noted for further strengthening comprehensive measures to increase hydrocarbon production, efficiently utilize existing oil and gas production capacity, and continue exploration and development of new fields.

Much attention was paid to increasing oil, gas condensate, and liquefied gas production, intensifying work at the Galkynysh gas field, ensuring the uninterrupted operation of production facilities, increasing oil and gas production, and accelerating construction.

Particular attention was paid to the construction of the Serhetabat-Herat gas pipeline,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2026 20:17:36 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/turkmenistan-intends-to-increase-oil-gas-condensate-and-iiquefied-gas-production/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/turkmenistan-intends-to-increase-oil-gas-condensate-and-iiquefied-gas-production/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Tajikistan&apos;s Trade Deficit Widens Despite Export Growth</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Tajikistan's foreign trade deficit in goods increased to $579 million in January of this year from $478 million in the same month in 2025, according to the Eurasian Development Bank's (EDB) weekly macroeconomic review, Asiaplus.tj reports.

"The increase in the deficit is explained by a 27.2% expansion in imports amid growing domestic demand in the economy," the review emphasizes.

It is noted that Tajikistan increased its purchases of vehicles by 52.7% year-on-year, machinery and equipment by 32.7% year-on-year, and food by 55.7% year-on-year.

"Exports increased by 53.1% year-on-year due to increased exports of precious and non-ferrous metals, textiles, and mineral products, including cement and ore concentrates," EDB analysts emphasize.

According to Tajikistan's statistics agency, the country's foreign trade turnover in January of this year amounted to $929 million, a 31.4% increase (or $221.9 million) compared to the same period last year. The trade balance was negative,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2026 20:04:42 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/tajikistans-trade-deficit-widens-despite-export-growth/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/tajikistans-trade-deficit-widens-despite-export-growth/</guid>
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	<item>
		<title>Over 25,000 Uzbek Citizens Repatriated from Middle East Conflict Zone</title>
		<description><![CDATA[As of the morning of March 10, 2026, a total of 25,047 Uzbek citizens have been evacuated to Uzbekistan from the escalation zone in the Middle East, the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported.

In the past 24 hours alone, 3,335 people were brought home via organized flights. Evacuation efforts continue around the clock, coordinated by the Foreign Ministry, the Ministry of Transport, and Uzbek diplomatic missions abroad.

The majority of repatriates are arriving on direct flights from countries with active air connections:


	
		
			
			Country
			
			
			Number of returnees
			
			
			Evacuation format
			
		
	
	
		
			
			Saudi Arabia
			
			
			21,017
			
			
			Direct flights
			
		
		
			
			UAE
			
			
			3,555
			
			
			Direct flights
			
		
		
			
			Qatar
			
			
			394
			
			
			Via third countries
			
		
		
			
			Iran
			
			
			47
			
			
			Via third countries
			
		
		
			
			Bahrain
			
			
			27
			
			
			Via third]]></description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2026 19:48:38 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/over-25-000-uzbek-citizens-repatriated-from-middle-east-conflict-zone/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/over-25-000-uzbek-citizens-repatriated-from-middle-east-conflict-zone/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Kazakhstan Increased Sunflower Oil Supplies to China by 44%</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Kazakhstan secured second place among suppliers of sunflower oil to China in 2025, capturing a 36% market share. This was announced by Yadkar Ibragimov, Chairman of the National Association of Oilseed Processors (NAOP), speaking at the international conference Chinese Grains &amp; Oils Congress 2026 in Shanghai, Kazinform news agency reports.

According to the Association's data, exports of Kazakh oil and fat products to China showed significant growth in 2025:


	
		
			
			Indicator
			
			
			Value
			
			
			Growth
			
		
	
	
		
			
			Export volume
			
			
			440,000 tons
			
			
			+44%
			
		
		
			
			Revenue
			
			
			$312 million
			
			
			+37%
			
		
		
			
			Sunflower oil market share
			
			
			36%
			
			
			2nd place
			
		
	


These results reflect growing trust from Chinese partners in the quality of Kazakh products and the effectiveness of established trade connections.

A key factor behind the export growth was improved logistics efficiency. As Yadkar Ibragimov noted, since early 2024,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2026 19:12:13 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kazakhstan-increased-sunflower-oil-supplies-to-china-by-44/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kazakhstan-increased-sunflower-oil-supplies-to-china-by-44/</guid>
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	<item>
		<title>Kyrgyzstan Allows Banks to Open Branches Abroad</title>
		<description><![CDATA[President of Kyrgyzstan Sadyr Japarov has signed a decree establishing legal conditions for Kyrgyz banks to enter foreign markets, instructing the country's National Bank to prepare a regulatory framework for opening overseas branches within three months, Economist.kg reports.

According to the document, the initiative aims to enhance the competitiveness of the financial sector and integrate domestic institutions into the global financial system.

The National Bank of Kyrgyzstan is tasked with swiftly improving regulatory acts and establishing stringent requirements for the annual capitalization of banks planning international expansion. This measure is intended to ensure financial stability and protect depositors' funds within the country. The regulator must also balance the liberalization of rules for entering new markets with an appropriate level of banking supervision to minimize risks to the national economy.

Entering the international arena will require Kyrgyz banks to comply not only with national]]></description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2026 18:55:37 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kyrgyzstan-allows-banks-to-open-branches-abroad/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kyrgyzstan-allows-banks-to-open-branches-abroad/</guid>
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	<item>
		<title>Uzhydromet Denies Threat of &quot;Toxic Acid Clouds&quot; From South for Central Asia</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Tajikistan has repatriated more than 300 of its citizens from the Middle East. In the morning, a charter flight from Dubai brought 130 Tajik nationals to Dushanbe, and later, the airline Somon Air delivered an additional 180 people to the country, Asiaplus.tj reports.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Tajikistan announced that the charter flight was organized with the assistance of Tajikistan's Embassy in the UAE, local authorities, and the airline Fly Dubai.

A second charter flight from Dubai, carrying 178 passengers—including foreign nationals—was operated by Somon Air from Al-Maktoum International Airport in Dubai.

Overall, against the backdrop of the conflict in the Middle East, approximately 550 people have returned to Tajikistan from Abu Dhabi and Dubai via charter flights operated by Somon Air and Fly Dubai.

Earlier,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Mon, 09 Mar 2026 19:19:06 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/uzhydromet-denies-threat-of-toxic-acid-clouds-from-south-for-central-asia/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/uzhydromet-denies-threat-of-toxic-acid-clouds-from-south-for-central-asia/</guid>
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	<item>
		<title>Tajikistan Repatriates Its Citizens from Middle East Amid Regional Escalation</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Tajikistan has repatriated more than 300 of its citizens from the Middle East. In the morning of March 8, a charter flight from Dubai brought 130 Tajik nationals to Dushanbe, and later, the airline Somon Air delivered an additional 180 people to the country, Asiaplus.tj reports.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Tajikistan announced that the charter flight was organized with the assistance of Tajikistan's Embassy in the UAE, local authorities, and the airline Fly Dubai.

A second charter flight from Dubai, carrying 178 passengers—including foreign nationals—was operated by Somon Air from Al-Maktoum International Airport in Dubai.

Overall, against the backdrop of the conflict in the Middle East, approximately 550 people have returned to Tajikistan from Abu Dhabi and Dubai via charter flights operated by Somon Air and Fly Dubai.

Earlier,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Mon, 09 Mar 2026 19:08:31 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/tajikistan-repatriates-its-citizens-from-middle-east-amid-regional-escalation/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/tajikistan-repatriates-its-citizens-from-middle-east-amid-regional-escalation/</guid>
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	<item>
		<title>Exhibition of Quran Editions and Islamic Calligraphy Opens at Iranian Embassy Cultural Center in Ashgabat</title>
		<description><![CDATA[An exhibition featuring various editions and translations of the Quran, as well as samples of Islamic calligraphy, has opened at the cultural center of the Iranian Embassy in Ashgabat. The event is dedicated to the holy month of Ramadan and commemorates the Supreme Leader of Iran, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Turkmenportal.com reports.

The opening ceremony was attended by Iran's Ambassador to Turkmenistan Ali Mojtaba Rouzbehani, Mufti of Turkmenistan Yalkap Khojagulyyev, students of Persian language courses, and media representatives. Guests also left condolence messages in a book of sympathy opened at the cultural center.

In his address, the Iranian Ambassador expressed gratitude to the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the People's Council Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, and President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov for their attention to cultural cooperation between the two countries.]]></description>
		<pubDate>Mon, 09 Mar 2026 17:26:04 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/exhibition-of-quran-editions-and-islamic-calligraphy-opens-at-iranian-embassy-cultural-center-in-ashgabat/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/exhibition-of-quran-editions-and-islamic-calligraphy-opens-at-iranian-embassy-cultural-center-in-ashgabat/</guid>
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	<item>
		<title>Kazakhstan&apos;s Foreign Ministry Continues Evacuation of Citizens from Middle East Escalation Zone</title>
		<description><![CDATA[The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan, in cooperation with relevant authorities, is continuing its operation to evacuate citizens of the republic from the escalation zone in the Middle East, Zakon.kz reports, citing the press service of the Kazakh Foreign Ministry.

As of March 9, 2026, more than 7,300 Kazakh citizens have returned home thanks to coordination with resident airlines and foreign carriers. The operation covers both organized evacuations and assistance for citizens departing independently via safe routes.

In addition to air flights, ground routes are being used to evacuate fellow citizens. People are crossing borders through friendly states in the region:


	Azerbaijan
	Armenia
	Turkmenistan


This combined approach enables authorities to reach the maximum number of people,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Mon, 09 Mar 2026 17:20:36 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kazakhstans-foreign-ministry-continues-evacuation-of-citizens-from-middle-east-escalation-zone/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kazakhstans-foreign-ministry-continues-evacuation-of-citizens-from-middle-east-escalation-zone/</guid>
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		<title>Kyrgyzstan Launches $50 Million Air Quality Improvement Project with WB Support</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Kyrgyzstan is implementing a major environmental project worth $50 million aimed at improving the country's air quality. The initiative is being carried out with financial and technical support from the World Bank, Deputy Minister of Natural Resources, Ecology and Technical Supervision Asel Raimkulova announced at a meeting of the parliamentary committee on agrarian policy, water resources, subsoil use, ecology and environmental protection, Vesti.kg reports.

According to Raimkulova, procurement of modern equipment for the Kyrgyzhydromet meteorological service has already been completed under the project. This will help improve the accuracy and timeliness of atmospheric pollution measurements.

In addition, a contract has been signed for the acquisition of two mobile laboratories to ensure mobile air quality monitoring. These units will be able to operate rapidly at various locations across the country,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Mon, 09 Mar 2026 16:38:47 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kyrgyzstan-launches-50-million-air-quality-improvement-project-with-wb-support/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kyrgyzstan-launches-50-million-air-quality-improvement-project-with-wb-support/</guid>
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	<item>
		<title>Moody’s Upgrades Tajikistan’s Sovereign Rating to B2 with Stable Outlook</title>
		<description><![CDATA[International rating agency Moody’s Investors Service has upgraded Tajikistan’s long-term sovereign rating from B3 to B2 and assigned the country a stable outlook, according to information from the National Bank of Tajikistan (NBT), Asiaplus.tj reports.

Moody’s linked the decision to sustained economic growth, stronger fiscal and financial positions, and the preservation of positive macroeconomic indicators. The NBT said the stable outlook reflects expectations that the country will continue to pursue prudent fiscal policy and maintain macroeconomic stability.

The regulator also stressed that the upgrade could expand opportunities for attracting investment, reduce borrowing costs, and strengthen Tajikistan’s position in international financial markets.

A month earlier, Standard &amp; Poor’s also improved the outlook on Tajikistan’s sovereign rating from stable to positive at B level.

CentralasianLIGHT.org
March 6, 2026]]></description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 06 Mar 2026 17:48:31 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/moodys-upgrades-tajikistans-sovereign-rating-to-b2-with-stable-outlook/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/moodys-upgrades-tajikistans-sovereign-rating-to-b2-with-stable-outlook/</guid>
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		<title>Middle East Conflict Takes Toll on Turkmen Market</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Iran remains a key trade partner for Turkmenistan, and current regional instability is negatively affecting the Turkmen market: sharp price increases have been recorded for food products, cigarettes, and other goods, Hronikatm.com reports.

Vegetables and fruits have seen the steepest price hikes: potatoes rose from 9.50 to 18–20 manats per kg, oranges to 15 manats, and tangerines to 20–22 manats. Prices for brynza (brined cheese) increased from 30–35 to 45 manats, Iranian milk has disappeared from store shelves, and locally produced milk rose from 10 to 12 manats per 1.5 liters.

Similar price spikes were previously observed during the pandemic, attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities, and mass protests in Iran. The current border closure has harmed entrepreneurs: many were unable to transport purchased batches of goods—particularly perishables—before the border shut, incurring significant losses. Small-]]></description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 06 Mar 2026 17:37:48 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/middle-east-conflict-takes-toll-on-turkmen-market/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/middle-east-conflict-takes-toll-on-turkmen-market/</guid>
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		<title>Kyrgyzstan Posts Unique Budget Surplus in EAEU for 2025</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Kyrgyzstan has demonstrated a unique result within the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU): according to data from the Eurasian Economic Commission's statistics department, it was the only country among the "EAEU five" to execute its 2025 state budget with a surplus exceeding $0.5 billion, while all other member states reported deficits, Economist.kg reports.

Revenues of Kyrgyzstan's republican budget reached $7.0 billion against expenditures of $6.5 billion. For comparison: Russia's deficit amounted to $67.4 billion, Kazakhstan's to $7.8 billion, and Armenia's to $1.1 billion; data for Belarus were not included in the report.

The surplus was driven by three key factors:


	Improved tax and customs administration, including digitalization (online cash registers, electronic invoices);
	High revenues from the Kumtor gold deposit and precious metals exports;
	Growth in foreign trade turnover, including re-exports and transit operations,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 06 Mar 2026 17:23:22 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kyrgyzstan-posts-unique-budget-surplus-in-eaeu-for-2025/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kyrgyzstan-posts-unique-budget-surplus-in-eaeu-for-2025/</guid>
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		<title>Rising Oil Prices Due to Middle East Tensions to Strengthen Kazakh Tenge and Boost Budget Revenues</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Chairman of the National Bank of Kazakhstan Timur Suleimenov stated on March 6 that escalating tensions in the Middle East, leading to higher oil prices, will have a positive impact on the country's economy—strengthening the tenge, increasing export revenues, and boosting inflows to the National Fund and state budget, Zakon.kz reports.

"More than 50% of export revenues and over 30% of budget and National Fund income are derived from oil. Therefore, rising oil prices fundamentally increase economic activity, the contribution of the oil and gas sector to GDP, and the volume of fiscal revenues," Suleimenov emphasized during a briefing.

At the same time, the head of the National Bank noted that the duration of the high-price period and the length of the military conflict are of key importance. Under current market conditions, there are no additional prerequisites for tenge weakening: higher export revenues increase the supply of foreign currency in the market,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 06 Mar 2026 15:13:22 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/rising-oil-prices-due-to-middle-east-tensions-to-strengthen-kazakh-tenge-and-boost-budget-revenues/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/rising-oil-prices-due-to-middle-east-tensions-to-strengthen-kazakh-tenge-and-boost-budget-revenues/</guid>
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