Bektenov, newly appointed chairman of the EADB Council.
The Eurasian Development Bank (EDB) has announced impressive advancements in investment, sustainability, and membership expansion, as outlined in its latest updates and future plans.
**Investment:**
The EDB has successfully met its annual investment plan for the first half of 2025, with new project signings totalling nearly $2.1 billion. The Bank boasts a robust pipeline, with projects at an advanced preparation stage exceeding $4 billion. In 2024, the Bank's total accumulated investment portfolio reached $16.5 billion, marking a $700 million increase over the previous year.
Kazakhstan remains the largest recipient of EDB investments, with a portfolio of $7.2 billion covering 116 projects, including 43 active ones valued at $2.9 billion. Positive investment trends are also seen in Armenia, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan. By 2025, the EDB's accumulated portfolio is expected to include 305 projects.
**Sustainability:**
More than 30% of the Bank’s projects are aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), effectively doubling the Bank’s target indicators set in its 2022–2026 strategy. The Bank has significantly expanded its technical assistance initiatives, with a 76% increase in the portfolio reaching historic highs in 2024.
The EDB is actively cooperating with the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) to finance infrastructure projects focused on sustainable development, transport, urban, and energy sectors. This partnership enhances knowledge-sharing, consulting services, and joint financing efforts to promote sustainable infrastructure in Eurasia.
**Membership Expansion:**
A major milestone was achieved with the Republic of Uzbekistan formally joining the EDB in 2025. Uzbekistan’s Minister of Investments, Industry and Trade expressed strong interest in expanding cooperation with the Bank, signalling further integration in the Eurasian economic space. The Bank is also expanding its geographical reach with new offices, including a recently opened office in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, supporting its commitment to serve a growing member base and extend its operational footprint.
**Governance and Strategic Priorities:**
The EDB Council meeting, chaired by Kazakhstan’s Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov, reviewed 2024 performance and discussed strategic priorities. Bektenov was elected Chairman of the EDB Council, and Kazakhstan’s Finance Minister Madi Takiyev was appointed as Deputy Chairman, indicating strong involvement of Kazakhstan in EDB's governance.
In summary, the Eurasian Development Bank is actively expanding its investment portfolio with a clear focus on sustainable development, enhancing cooperation with other international financial institutions, and broadening its membership, notably with Uzbekistan joining in 2025. The Bank is well-positioned to drive infrastructure and economic development across Eurasia through its growing project base and strategic partnerships.
- The EDB is currently investing heavily in various industries, having met its annual investment plan for the first half of 2025, with new project signings amounting to nearly $2.1 billion.
- In alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, more than 30% of the Bank’s projects are focused on finance and business for sustainable development, effectively doubling the Bank’s target indicators.
