Kyrgyzstan and Binance, the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange, have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening cooperation in the development of a secure and innovative digital economy. On October 6, Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov met in Bishkek with Binance Chief Marketing Officer Rachel Conlan to discuss ongoing and future collaboration.

Japarov emphasized the country’s strategic priorities, noting that the National Council for the Development of Virtual Assets and Blockchain Technologies is currently working on a new digital asset, the KGST, which will be pegged to the national currency, the som. Concurrently, the National Bank of Kyrgyzstan is developing the digital som, a national digital currency, with plans to integrate it with the KGST to expand both domestic and cross-border applications.

Conlan highlighted Binance’s global reach and extensive partner network as key assets in accelerating Kyrgyzstan’s digital transformation. She underscored the company’s long-term commitment to supporting digital projects and educational initiatives in the country. The recent visit by Binance founder Changpeng Zhao to Kyrgyzstan brought international attention to the growing partnership.

On May 3, Japarov and Zhao met to discuss the future of digital assets and blockchain in Kyrgyzstan. The agenda included the development of a national digital asset ecosystem, the integration of blockchain into public administration, and the strengthening of cybersecurity frameworks. During the meeting, Zhao agreed to support Kyrgyzstan’s digital transition by providing consultation and training for specialists working on the digital som project. He was also appointed public adviser to the President on digital asset development.

The following day, Japarov chaired the first session of the National Council for the Development of Virtual Assets and Blockchain Technologies, where Zhao was officially confirmed as a Council member. The Council was established to shape unified state policies on virtual assets and advance their integration into governance and key economic sectors.

In parallel, the National Investment Agency of Kyrgyzstan signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with Zhao. Under the agreement, Binance will support the development of blockchain infrastructure, the creation of a national cryptocurrency reserve, and training programs focused on blockchain technology, digital asset management, and cybersecurity.

This growing partnership positions Kyrgyzstan as a regional leader in digital economy innovation, leveraging blockchain and virtual asset technologies to enhance public administration, economic governance, and global competitiveness.