Weekend Long Read: Hu Shuli’s Breakfast With Former Kyrgyz Prime Minister

The article is a profile of Djoomart Otorbaev, former prime minister of Kyrgyzstan, tracing his journey from scientist to political leader to respected international commentator, and highlighting his vision for Central Asia’s future. [para. 1]

The narrative begins with a breakfast meeting between the author and Otorbaev at Singapore’s Mandai Rainforest Resort. Otorbaev discusses his current goal: raising the global profile of Central Asia and fostering regional development through research, writing, and participation in international forums. He describes himself as a “free man,” financially comfortable and engaged in activities he enjoys, including occasional paid speaking engagements, having stepped away from both politics and business. [para. 1][para. 4][para. 6][para. 7]

Otorbaev, now 70 and still active in global events like the Caixin Asia New Vision Forum, grew up in an academic household in what is now Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. He excelled in natural sciences, earning a doctorate from the prestigious Lebedev Physical Institute in Moscow by age 26 and later achieving the top Soviet academic title, Doctor of Sciences. The Soviet Union’s collapse in 1991 led him to return from Moscow to Kyrgyzstan to teach. In 1992, he gained exposure to Western academic and business circles as a visiting professor in the Netherlands, marking his first experience outside the Soviet system. [para. 8][para. 9][para. 10][para. 11][para. 12]

By the mid-1990s, Otorbaev transitioned from academia to industry, joining Philips as its chief representative in Central Asia and later rising to deputy CEO of Philips Central Asia. This corporate role saw him handling strategic expansion and investment attraction. His international and scientific background made him a prominent figure in both the business and political arenas of Kyrgyzstan. In 2002, Otorbaev entered government, serving as deputy prime minister for the economy and playing a key role in attracting foreign investment. However, after the 2005 “Tulip Revolution,” which led to political upheaval, he left government service. [para. 13][para. 14][para. 15][para. 16][para. 17][para. 18]

He subsequently worked as an adviser to the president of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) in London. In this capacity, Otorbaev acted as a bridge between Central Asia and the global financial community, supporting market-oriented reforms and infrastructure growth. He returned to Kyrgyzstan after being asked to assist during another period of national instability. [para. 19][para. 20][para. 21]

Otorbaev resumed political life in 2011 as first deputy prime minister, becoming a central technocratic figure. He became prime minister in 2014, focusing on economic reform, foreign investment, and energy improvements. Constraints from parliamentary dynamics limited his effectiveness, and he resigned in April 2015 before the parliamentary elections, earning a reputation as a “clean technocrat.” Post-premiership, he maintained an independent stance, becoming a respected international commentator and academic. [para. 22][para. 23][para. 24][para. 25][para. 26][para. 27][para. 28]

His work includes membership in prominent academic and development circles and releasing a significant 2023 book, "Central Asia’s Economic Rebirth in the Shadow of the New Great Game," seen as essential for understanding the region’s transition. Otorbaev believes Central Asia is poised to become the next “Asian Tiger,” citing robust economic growth (Kyrgyzstan’s GDP grew 11.7% in early 2023) and demographic strengths. Asian rivals like India are the only ones matching its growth. He actively encourages greater integration and international visibility, referencing forums like the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and BRICS. [para. 29][para. 30][para. 31][para. 32][para. 33][para. 34][para. 35][para. 36]

Otorbaev also offers incisive views on China and Europe. He examines China’s evolving global role and the strategic positioning needed for Central Asia amid major power rivalries. For Europe, he stresses self-reliance and competitiveness post-U.S. disengagement, warning that failure to adapt could relegate Europe to insignificance. [para. 37][para. 38][para. 39][para. 40]

In summary, Otorbaev’s biography reflects adaptability, integrity, and a persistent drive to innovate and add value across academia, business, politics, and international diplomacy. He remains disciplined and vibrant, blending intellectual rigor with practical engagement in shaping Central Asia’s future. [para. 41][para. 42][para. 43][para. 44]