South Korea launches $10 million air quality project in Kyrgyzstan
KOICA initiative to run through 2028 will target Bishkek’s severe winter pollution and expand green heating systems in schools
BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan (MNTV) — South Korea has launched a $10 million project to help Kyrgyzstan tackle worsening air pollution, with a focus on the capital Bishkek, one of the world’s most polluted cities during winter months.
According to the Times of Central Asia, the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and Kyrgyzstan’s Ministry of Natural Resources, Ecology, and Technical Supervision signed a Record of Discussions last week in Bishkek, marking the official start of the Air Quality Improvement Project.
The program will run through 2028 and aims to strengthen Kyrgyzstan’s ability to respond to climate change while improving urban air quality.
The launch ceremony was attended by Kim Kwang-jae, South Korea’s ambassador to Kyrgyzstan; Meder Mashiev, Kyrgyzstan’s minister of natural resources and ecology; and Lim So Yeon, KOICA’s country director in Bishkek.
Officials highlighted that the initiative will directly address the heavy reliance on coal, which drives up harmful emissions each winter and regularly places Bishkek among the top 10 most polluted cities worldwide on IQAir’s global index.
Key elements of the program include a phased rollout of pollution mitigation measures in Bishkek, development of a “Comprehensive Air Quality Management Plan for 2028–2038,” and a pilot project to introduce green heating systems in public schools and kindergartens.
Heat pumps will be installed in around 30 institutions in the Chui region, which includes Bishkek, potentially improving conditions for an estimated 2.3 million people.
“The issue of air quality is of particular concern in Bishkek, and it is important to address it. We look forward to the successful implementation of the project and continued collaboration with the Ministry,” Ambassador Kim said at the event.
KOICA Country Director Lim added that the initiative should deliver tangible benefits for public health and climate resilience, calling it “an important example of international cooperation.”
Minister Mashiev welcomed the partnership, stressing Kyrgyzstan’s appreciation of South Korea’s role in advancing environmental priorities. KOICA has been active in the country for over a decade.
South Korea’s involvement in Kyrgyzstan’s environmental sector has grown in recent months. In addition to KOICA’s work, Korean firms are investing in electric vehicle infrastructure.
The Public-Private Partnership Center under Kyrgyzstan’s National Investment Agency, together with OJSC Chakan HPP and South Korea’s BLUE NETWORKS CO., LTD., has agreed to establish a local EV charging equipment plant and develop a nationwide charging network. I
n June, Kyrgyzstan’s Ministry of Economy and Commerce also signed a memorandum with South Korean companies EVSIS, NGS, and the Korea Automobile Environment Association to expand EV infrastructure in Bishkek.
Have Your Say!
Have you been affected by the issues raised in this story? Please share your experiences by emailing haveyoursay@soundvision.com.
Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a Muslim Network TV’s representative. You can also get in touch in the following ways:
Tweet: @MuslimNetworkTV
We must take charge of our narrative. Research indicates that 92% of their Muslim coverage is negative. Help us change that.
