Today, she represents the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Kyrgyz Republic in Riyadh, establishing connections between Kyrgyz businesses and one of the fastest-growing economies in the world.
Photo from the interviewee's archive. Nazira Ibraim kyzy
— Nazira, please share your story. How did you get into university at such a young age?
— I grew up in a family of migrants, and my parents worked hard to give me the opportunities they never had. I have always felt a great responsibility towards them for their support, which continues to inspire me.
From an early age, I began studying and started school at the age of five. Thanks to an accelerated program, I quickly advanced through the grades. After the ninth grade, I entered the Law College and then the Law Institute. At 14, I started studying at the university and by 2013, I had managed to obtain a master's degree after my bachelor's degree.
— How did your career in law begin? Did you work in Kyrgyzstan, or did you immediately continue your studies abroad?
— My career as a lawyer started during my studies when I interned in courts, the prosecutor's office, and also worked with the OSCE and UNHCR.
In my final year, I won a case against the Ministry of Justice, which became an important milestone in my professional development.
Nazira Ibraim kyzy
After this success, I was offered prestigious scholarships at universities in Italy, Norway, South Korea, and Armenia, which allowed me to choose an international career.
— Why did you choose South Korea? What did this country give you?
— South Korea is a vivid example of how a country can quickly transform from a developing economy into a global leader. I was looking for an environment that combines innovation and strategic thinking. Studying at Seoul National University became my third master's program and gave me a systematic understanding and a new vision for the development of states.
At the Faculty of International Cooperation, I not only gained valuable academic and cultural experience but also met key figures, including former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, who became a mentor to me.
— Why did you decide to continue your career in Saudi Arabia?
— Saudi Arabia today is one of the most actively developing economies. The Saudi Vision 2030 program represents a real transformation, not just a slogan.
I started my work here as a legal consultant and, by participating in international economic projects, saw huge opportunities for investment and cooperation, which prompted me to become a representative of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Kyrgyz Republic.
— What are your responsibilities as a representative of the CCI of the KR in the kingdom? What goals do you set?
— My mission is to be a link between Kyrgyzstan and Saudi Arabia, helping Kyrgyz businesses enter the market, develop B2B connections, and promote export interests.
I strive for Kyrgyz businesses to be perceived as reliable partners, not as a "small market in Central Asia."
— What motivates you to work in the field of international economic cooperation?
— I am inspired by the opportunity to connect countries and people, to see how real projects arise from simple dialogue.
— Which sectors of the Kyrgyz economy are of most interest to Saudi Arabia?
— At this stage, Saudi Arabia is looking not just for goods, but for reliable partners with a clear long-term plan. They need stable cooperation, certification, and transparent logistics. They import a large portion of food products and are eager to find reliable suppliers from "organic" regions.
In this context, the following industries are of interest:
- agro-export and processing, including honey, dried fruits, and organic products;
- halal meat, where Kyrgyzstan can compete due to pastures and natural feeding;
- building materials and industrial cooperation;
- tourism — investors from Saudi Arabia are looking at eco-friendly destinations;
- manufacturing and assembly lines;
- logistics and trade hubs, where Kyrgyzstan can act as a manufacturing base and export hub.
— What difficulties do Kyrgyz entrepreneurs face?
— The Saudi Arabian market requires time, and trust and a long-term strategy are important here. The main difficulties for entrepreneurs lie in insufficient understanding of the market, poor documentation preparation, and the expectation of quick financial results.
— What steps should Kyrgyz businesses take?
— It is important to adapt the product or service to the standards of Saudi Arabia, undergo certification, and be ready for negotiations.
— What assistance does the CCI provide?
— The Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Kyrgyz Republic helps businesses through networking, participation in business forums and exhibitions, organizing business missions, as well as conducting market research and consultations. These tools help find partners and clients in Saudi Arabia.
— What is the role of cultural peculiarities in business?
— In Saudi Arabia, culture plays a key role in business strategy. Ignoring cultural aspects can lead to lost deals. Success depends not only on the quality of the product but also on the ability to build trusting relationships.
— How was your adaptation in Saudi Arabia?
— This is my fifth country of residence, and the adaptation was gradual. The culture and climate here are completely different. My international experience, as well as the spirit of a nomad, helped me adapt to life in a new country.
— What are the main pros and cons of living in Saudi Arabia?
— Pros: many opportunities and rapid reforms. Cons: sometimes the loneliness of an expatriate is felt.
— What do you miss while being away from Kyrgyzstan?
— I miss my parents, the Chatkal mountains, and the silence of Darkhan.
— What are your hobbies besides work?
— I enjoy playing chess and learning new languages.
