First of all, on behalf of AmCham it is my pleasure to welcome H.E. Tatiana Gfoeller as US Ambassador to the Kyrgyz Republic. AmCham is delighted to continue the close partnership between AmCham and the Embassy that was forged previously.    

In September 2008 both Board and Committee Chairs approved the AmCham annual plan. According to the plan, the following will be conducted annually: Members’ Day, Trade Conference, IPR Seminar, Visa Facilitation Discussion and Membership Meeting.  

Additional opportunities for members to network are our informal membership lunches. During such gatherings, our members are welcome not only to develop useful contacts, but also to discuss issues of concern linked to the development of the private sector.

    On September 22, 2008 the sixth report in an annual series produced by the World Bank and IFC was presented in the Hyatt Regency Bishkek. According to this document, Kyrgyzstan’s overall rank on ‘ease of doing business’ rose from 99^th to 68^th. As World Bank experts noted, the Kyrgyz Republic has enhanced investor protection, eased business start-ups by simplifying the registration procedure, and introduced a one-stop shop for obtaining construction permits. Despite these reported achievements, the enforcement mechanism of the existing legislation still remains a huge impediment for a positive business climate and investor protection. Many laws are declaratory and contain reference norms to subordinate acts. Beyond this, the ongoing energy crisis may jeopardize the functioning of day-to-day business in Kyrgyzstan. I do hope, therefore, that the Government will undertake immediate steps to increase implementation of laws and   resolve the energy problems in the near future, providing a constant light and electricity supply to every home and workplace in the country.             

Sincerely,

Ainura Cholponkulova

Executive Director

Text from AmCham Kyrgyz Republic Magazine #4, September-November 2008