Sydykov noted that the country has established sustainable connections with key regulators, including the Geological Agency and the Ministry of Ecology. He also emphasized that over 1,000 deposits are registered in Kyrgyzstan, but less than 50% of them are in the development stage.
Of the 20-22 internationally recognized critical minerals, according to Sydykov, only about seven are actively being developed in Kyrgyzstan. While the total volume of the country's mineral resources is estimated at $177 billion, this figure varies across the region from $1 to $1.5 trillion.
For the sector to develop dynamically, Kyrgyzstan and the region need modern technologies, highly qualified specialists, and investments. The Executive Director emphasized that it is critically important to harmonize legislation, improve logistics, optimize supply chains, and ensure access to geological data.
"Every dollar invested in the accessibility of geological data brings $7.3 in revenue," added Sydykov. He also mentioned that Kyrgyzstan has not yet adapted international GORC standards and other Western approaches to managing geological data.
