Work Continues on Joining WTO Investment Facilitation Agreement in Kyrgyzstan

The National Investment Agency under the President of the Kyrgyz Republic, in collaboration with the International Trade Center, is conducting a seminar on validating national self-assessment under the "Central Asia Observers" project regarding the WTO investment facilitation agreement. As part of the preparation for accession, the National Investment Agency has formed an inter-agency working group to conduct a comprehensive self-assessment. The group will review Article 23 of the agreement and respond to over 500 survey questions. The seminar will discuss identifying shortcomings and priority areas for reforms. "National self-assessment and its validation allow for identifying shortcomings and developing a reform plan to enhance transparency and predictability in the investment sphere," noted Deputy Director of the National Investment Agency, Jalyn Zheanaliev. Kyrgyzstan's accession to the agreement will open opportunities for simplifying procedures for investors, introducing a "one-stop shop," and strengthening the country's institutional capacity.