Kazakhstan attracted over $2 bln of foreign direct investments in Jan- Oct 2000

/IRBIS, Nov.29, 00/ - REUTERS informs that in present year Kazakhstan has drawn $2 bln in foreign direct investments. Their major part included Tengizchevroil (TCH) investments, OKIOK, international consortium on oil exploration and Karachaganak oil-gas field. Since 1994, Kazakhstan board of foreign investments attracted $11.6 bln in raw materials sector of the economy. The rest of economy such as agriculture, infrastructure and processing industry received top priority position and preferences for investors. For 11 months 2000, Kazakhstan concluded 43 contracts within these sectors. The volume of bid investments rose to $161.9 mln of which $101.2 mln were of Kazakhstan origin. Infrastructure and processing industries received the biggest share of investment. Presently, the government develops new investment program for 2001-2002. Foreign Investors Council, consulting body of foreign investors under the President of Kazakhstan, will held its consecutive meeting in Almata on Dec 08. The council includes Chevron, Baker & Mackenzie, Deutsche Bank, ABN AMRO Bank, British Gas, Ispat Karmet, Samsung, Mitsubishi and EBRD.