Kazakhstan reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable development by supporting the implementation of circular economy principles and green construction standards at the EU SWITCH-Asia international forum, held on 22–23 May in Bishkek. The Kazakh delegation included Mr. Saken Kalkamanov, Chairman of the Board of the “International Green Technologies and Investment Projects Center” (IGTIPC), and Mr. Arman Kalykоv, Member of the Mazhilis of the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

Speaking during the session dedicated to national experiences from Central Asia, Mr. Arman Kalykоv emphasized that Kazakhstan views the circular economy as a strategic vector for sustainable growth:

“We recognize the importance of the circular economy in sectors such as construction, agriculture, and waste management. To fully realize its potential, we must ensure policy coherence, implement national standards, develop human capital, and apply leading international practices,” said Mr. Kalykоv.

Later, in the session focused on sustainable construction and infrastructure, Mr. Saken Kalkamanov highlighted Kazakhstan’s practical contributions to the development of green architecture and regulatory frameworks:

“Today, it is not only important to design environmental initiatives but to scale the mechanisms that already work. Kazakhstan supports the implementation of circular approaches in construction as a foundation for sustainable growth and regional integration,” emphasized Mr. Kalkamanov, representing the country in his role as National Focal Point for the SWITCH-Asia programme.

Circular construction is a modern approach to architecture and urban development based on the reuse of materials, waste recycling, energy-efficient technologies, and minimizing environmental impact. In Kazakhstan, this area is promoted through the introduction of Best Available Techniques (BAT), development of national standards, and support for innovation.

The SWITCH-Asia forum brought together parliamentarians, ministry representatives, international organizations, and technical experts from across Central Asia. Key topics included green public procurement (GPP), extended producer responsibility (EPR), private sector engagement in sustainable supply chains, and the role of legislators in advancing policies for sustainable consumption and production.

The Kazakh delegation also held a series of working meetings with international partners and EU representatives, discussing mechanisms for green technology transfer, climate-related solutions, and standardization within the circular economy framework.

The participation of Kazakhstan’s Parliament and IGTIPC at the forum reaffirmed the country’s leading role in promoting green initiatives and strengthening regional cooperation for sustainable development.