The Interbank Processing Center (operator of the national payment system “Elkart”) and the international platform Alipay+ have successfully completed the first test transaction within the Alipay+/ELQR integration framework. This event marks the beginning of creating a digital bridge between Kyrgyzstan and the countries where Alipay+ operates, expanding opportunities for cross-border payments.

The testing took place in Shanghai, China, during the working visit of Altimish Turatbekov, Chairman of the Interbank Processing Center. Specialists checked a test scenario for QR-code payment in the direction of Alipay, and the operation was completed successfully. This confirms steady progress toward implementing the tasks set by the National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic to develop digital services and international cooperation.

This new stage of cooperation opens additional opportunities for citizens of Kyrgyzstan as well as foreign visitors.

At the first stage, Elkart users will gain the ability to quickly and conveniently pay for goods and services via QR code toward Alipay+ at millions of retail points abroad.

At the second stage, payments will become bilateral, enabling mutual acceptance of QR payments between the systems.

A Memorandum of Understanding between the Interbank Processing Center and Alipay+ (the digital payment platform of Ant International, operating in 57 countries) was signed in September in Shanghai.

ORIENT