Helvetas Leadership Visit to Central Asia

Mr. Melchior Lengsfeld, Executive Director of HELVETAS Swiss Intercooperation and Mr. Jüerg Merz, Continental Coordinator for Asia, conducted an official visit to Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan in early June 2026 to strengthen cooperation and engagement with key partners..

During the visit to Uzbekistan, meetings were held with government authorities, development partners, and private sector representatives. Discussions focused on advancing cooperation in vocational education and training, enhancing workforce development, and improving conditions for sustainable economic growth. Particular attention was given to expanding opportunities for graduates of vocational education institutions to successfully transition into the labour market and to strengthening linkages between education providers and employers.

In Kyrgyzstan, the delegation held a meeting with the Development Policy Institute, where discussions covered the results of ongoing initiatives, exchange of experience, and opportunities for further partnership development. Special focus was placed on future cooperation in the areas of sustainable development, support to local communities, and strengthening local governance, reflecting a long-standing and trusted partnership.

The delegation also met with Youth of Osh, where discussions focused on the organisation’s current activities, longstanding cooperation, and opportunities for further development of youth initiatives in Central Asia.

In addition, Mr. Melchior Lengsfeld and Mr. Jüerg Merz, undertook several field visits to gain first-hand insights into implementation and results on the ground, inculding the visit to Myrza-Ake municiplity in southern Kyrgyzstan, engaging with stakeholders and reviewing efforts aimed at improving water management and supporting local livelihoods.

The visit reaffirmed HELVETAS Swiss Intercooperation’s continued commitment to working with partners across Central Asia to promote inclusive development and strengthen institutions.