Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has unveiled its new partnership strategy with Uzbekistan for the period 2024-2028.

According to the bank, the strategy aims to support reforms focused on transforming the country into a green and inclusive economy.

Under this five-year strategy, ADB will collaborate with the government of Uzbekistan to facilitate the transition to a green economy, enhance the competitiveness of the private sector, and stimulate investment in human capital, aligning with the long-term goals outlined in the "Uzbekistan-2030" program.

Eugene Zhukov, ADB’s Director General for Central and West Asia, emphasized that the new partnership strategy will assist Uzbekistan in achieving its strategic goals of transitioning to a green economy by 2030. Despite global and regional challenges, ADB remains committed to supporting Uzbekistan in achieving sustainable economic growth and poverty reduction.

The strategy covers sectors such as energy, public sector management, finance, transport, agriculture, natural resource management, and urban development. It also includes support for education and social protection.

Khanokpan Lao-Arya, ADB’s Country Director for Uzbekistan, noted that ADB will mobilize its sovereign and private operations, political dialogue, and innovative solutions to achieve the strategic goals.

To expand the role of the private sector in the economy, ADB will enhance macroeconomic and fiscal reforms, as well as the transformation of state-owned enterprises. The bank plans to increase support for the private sector through direct non-sovereign financing and public-private partnerships, improving financial markets, and investing in infrastructure.

With the aim of developing human capital by 2030, ADB will focus on improving the quality of education and skills, expanding access to medical and social services, and strengthening social protection for vulnerable groups. As part of the strategy, ADB also plans to expand partnerships for co-financing and dialogue with national and international companies and investors, and continue cooperation with civil society on climate change, gender equality, and support for vulnerable populations.

Since Uzbekistan joined ADB in 1995, the bank has provided the country with loans, grants, and technical assistance totaling US$12.5 billion.