AKIPRESS.COM - IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, held a forum in Bishkek to examine the opportunities and challenges of implementing public-private partnerships (PPPs) in Kyrgyzstan, part of an effort to help improve the country’s infrastructure.

The event explored how PPPs can help the Central Asian state address some of its most pressing infrastructure needs, and focused on power stations, airports, and municipal infrastructure. It examined best practices from around the world and featured case studies by leading private investors, international financiers, consultants, and government representatives.

In an effort to encourage private sector investment in infrastructure, Kyrgyzstan has updated its PPP laws, making them compliant with international best practices, and established a fund to develop and finance PPP projects.

IFC has been providing advice to national and municipal governments on designing and implementing PPPs for over 25 years. Since fiscal year 2004, they have signed over 200 projects in 76 countries, many in the world’s poorest states. In 2014, IFC had an active portfolio of 80 PPP projects in 45 countries. In parallel, they invest in private business implementing and operating PPPs around the world.