EFCA Recognized for Best Contribution to US-Kazakhstan Relations Central Asia, Kazakhstan

US Ambassador to Kazakhstan John Ordway recently presented Eurasia Foundation of Central Asia (EFCA) with the Ambassador's Award for Best Contribution to US-Kazakhstan Relations on behalf of the American Chamber of Commerce in Kazakhstan.

“EFCA has shown innovation and persistence in establishing an indigenous foundation in Central Asia that will strengthen civil society throughout the Central Asian region, fulfilling a critical U.S. government goal,” said Ambassador Ordway during the presentation ceremony.

Upon accepting the award, EFCA President Jeff Erlich thanked the members of the American Chamber of Commerce, and also expressed gratitude to the governments of the United States and Kazakhstan for their continued support of EFCA. The ceremonywhich took place in Almatywas attended by about 150 people.

EF first opened its offices in Central Asia in 1993, and went on to invest more than $40 million in the region. In 2005, EF localized its activities in Central Asia with the launch of EFCA to better meet the needs of its local partners and devolve management responsibilities to local staff.