Melco Resorts & Entertainment has taken another step toward expanding its international development footprint after senior executives met with Kazakhstan's government to discuss potential cooperation on the country's flagship Alatau City project.
Kazakhstan Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov welcomed Melco Chairman and CEO Lawrence Ho for talks on opportunities to develop modern tourism infrastructure as part of the government's broader strategy to diversify the economy and attract foreign investment.
The meeting centered on the long-term development of Alatau City, a major urban and tourism project receiving strong backing from President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. Officials discussed the possibility of Melco participating in future projects within the new city, particularly in areas related to hospitality, tourism and supporting infrastructure.
Bektenov emphasized that the government has made Alatau City a national priority and highlighted Kazakhstan's efforts to create a stable investment environment. Beginning July 1, 2026, a new Constitution for Alatau City and the Constitutional Law on the Special Legal Regime of Alatau City will take effect, introducing transparent investment mechanisms, stronger legal protections for investors and greater long-term stability for development projects.
Ho said Melco is interested in exploring joint projects in Kazakhstan and believes the country offers significant potential for tourism and hospitality growth. He noted that the company's international experience in developing integrated resorts and destination attractions could support Kazakhstan's ambitions to strengthen its tourism sector.
At the conclusion of the meeting, both sides reaffirmed their interest in maintaining dialogue and exploring future opportunities to cooperate on modern tourism infrastructure projects.
Melco Resorts & Entertainment operates integrated resorts in Macau, the Philippines and Cyprus, with expertise spanning gaming, hospitality, tourism and MICE facilities
