Kazakhstan holds talks with foreign investors for airport trust management

ASTANA. Dec 19 (Interfax) - Negotiations are underway with major global investors for the transfer of Aktobe, Turkestan, and Kyzylorda airports in Kazakhstan into trust management, Kazakh Transport Minister Marat Karabayev said.

"In our efforts to establish multimodal centers at the country's airports, we are actively involving private investors possessing the necessary expertise and capital. Ongoing discussions aim to entrust the management of Aktobe, Turkestan, and Kyzylorda airports to experienced global investors," he said during a government meeting on Tuesday.

He said a phased implementation of runway reconstructions, refueling complexes, and the expansion of passenger and cargo terminals is underway at the airports of Astana, Almat and Shymkent as part of the effort to attract private investors.

Karabayev said an investor had plans to modernize the runway at Karaganda Airport and equip it with necessary specialized equipment. "The total investment for this project amounts to $2.4 billion, including foreign contributions," he said.