On July 5, ABAD PLE, run by the State Agency for Public Service and Social Innovations under the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, signed A Protocol of Intention on cooperation with the Turkestan Executive Power of Kazakhstan Republic.

The protocol was signed between Director of ABAD Rufat Elchiyev and Deputy Executive Officer of Turkistan Province Meirjanan Mirzaliyev.

The document envisages further development of micro and small entrepreneurship in the Turkestan region on the basis of the Azerbaijani "ABAD" model.

It is worth reminding that, "ABAD" – Simplified Support to Family Business - Supports micro, small and medium entrepreneurs, as well as those who are involved in decorative-applied folk arts since 2016. To date, the number of ABAD artisans has exceeded 300. There are 9 ethno-boutiques in different geographical areas of the country for the sale of handicrafts. A variety of products bearing the national spirit of Azerbaijan can be obtained here. For those who want to improve themselves in decorative-applied folk arts, "ABAD" Schools operate throughout the Republic. Should note that Turkistan is not only a historical site along the Great Silk Road, but also a spiritual capital of the Turkic world. By the end of 2019, the Traditional Crafts Center of the Great Silk Road will be opened in Turkistan. According to the project, artists presenting the Turkish world will continue their activities in the centre.

The Protocol of İntention envisages the exchange of experience between ABAD and the Great Silk Road Traditional Handcrafting Center in Turkistan.