According to Kulov, this project is one of the most significant infrastructure initiatives in the country and has the potential to make Kyrgyzstan a key transit hub between the East and the West. The total cost of the project is approximately $4.7 billion, of which 24.5% will be borne by Kyrgyzstan.
As part of his initiative, he suggests that about 30% of this share be "public." This means that the government could offer citizens the opportunity to purchase registered shares of the project.
According to preliminary calculations, the minimum participation package could be around 4-5 thousand soms per adult, with the possibility of installment payments over 4-6 years — about 60-90 soms per month.
Kulov emphasizes that this approach will reduce external borrowing, decrease the debt burden, and attract internal resources. Instead of paying interest to foreign creditors, the government could direct income in the form of dividends to citizens.
Additionally, the former Prime Minister noted that when the project reaches full capacity, the expected return will be 15-25% per annum, which will ensure regular payments, growth in share value, and protection against inflation.
Among the proposed conditions are the issuance of registered shares, a ban on free sale, the possibility of transferring shares by inheritance, and the right of redemption only by the state. Kulov believes that this will protect the strategic project from speculation and concentration in the hands of a limited circle of individuals.
He also noted that similar models of public involvement have been used in various countries, such as Norway and Singapore, and suggested adapting them for Kyrgyzstan.
In conclusion, Kulov called for a discussion of his initiative and expressed hope for the active participation of economists, lawyers, business representatives, and citizens in discussing the proposals.
