OSCE Centre assists Kyrgyz Government, NGOs and business community in shaping economic policy

BISHKEK, 27 May 2005 - The OSCE Centre in Bishkek today launched a series of meetings focusing on the interaction between the business community, NGOs and the government to ensure sustainable development of the Kyrgyz economy.

Jointly organized with the USAID, about 20 meetings, to be held in all regions of the country in the run-up to the 10 July presidential election will bring together representatives of NGOs, the media and business associations to discuss future economic policies.

"Private business has to be considered an engine for economic development," said Asim Acikel, the OSCE Centre's Economic Officer, in his opening remarks.

"Today's meeting has become a platform for unifying the efforts of NGOs and business associations to protect the interests of entrepreneurs through concrete recommendations to the government."

These recommendations cover most areas of economic life including agriculture, mining, tourism and access to information on property ownership. Participants agreed the need for the creation of an independent Revenue Collection Agency, stimulation of employment by reducing payroll taxes, reform of the public administration and the judicial system.

"The government shares the priorities proposed by the business sector and civil society," said First Vice Prime Minister Felix Kulov.

Business representatives said they expected the government to create favourable conditions both to attract foreign investment and to ensure security and stability for the development of local investment.

Mr Kulov informed participants that an economic development programme would be presented during the National Economic Forum to be held next month. Several working groups would be set up to implement tasks in different areas of economic and social life.