IBC Presented Its Approaches to Advancing Business Interests at the CIPE Regional Conference

On 24–25 September 2026, Yerevan hosted the international conference “Building Economic Freedom & Resilience Through Cross-Regional Partnerships,” organized by the Center for International Private Enterprise (CIPE). The conference brought together representatives of business associations and civil society organizations from Central Asia, the South Caucasus, and the Western Balkans.

Cholpon Djoldosheva, Deputy Executive Director of the International Business Council, spoke at a panel discussion focused on the role of business associations and civil society organizations in advancing economic reforms and expanding economic opportunities. Representatives of organizations from Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Armenia, and Georgia also took part in the discussion.

In her remarks, Cholpon Djoldosheva presented IBC’s experience in advancing the interests of the private sector in the Kyrgyz Republic and outlined the key approaches the association applies in facilitating engagement between businesses and government authorities.

It was noted that effective advocacy begins with identifying issues that are relevant to a broad range of companies and developing a consolidated business position. IBC’s sectoral committees play an important role in this process by bringing together the practical experience and industry expertise of member companies.

Particular attention was given to evidence-based and consistent advocacy. Business proposals should not only identify an existing problem but also provide an analysis of its practical implications and possible solutions. At the same time, advancing initiatives often requires several stages of consultations, technical discussions, and subsequent engagement with government authorities.

Regional cooperation among business associations was also highlighted. As an example, IBC presented its recent working visit to Georgia, supported by CIPE, which provided an opportunity to exchange practical experience with Georgian partners and identify areas for further cooperation in trade, investment, and the development of business ties.

During the conference, participants also exchanged experience in the institutional development of business associations, membership engagement, public-private dialogue, and business advocacy, while discussing opportunities for joint regional initiatives. These areas were identified by the organizers among the conference’s key themes.

Participation in the conference enabled IBC to present Kyrgyzstan’s experience, exchange practices with business associations from other countries, and further develop partnerships with organizations from Central Asia, the South Caucasus, and the Western Balkans.