Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) -- On 19 February, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) signed a loan agreement with the Republic of Uzbekistan in Tashkent to provide a Japanese ODA loan of up to 37,000 million yen (approximately US$250 million) for the Sustainable Economy and Social Development Support Programme Loan.

This loan will support the Uzbekistan government’s continued economic reforms related to the transition to a market economy and will also enhance social inclusion and stability, including protecting the vulnerable, who are susceptible to changes in economic conditions. 

Through support for the strengthening of market institutions and the environment for private sector growth, the improvement of state-owned enterprise management, and the enhancement of social inclusion and resilience, this loan will contribute to the achievement of SDGs Goals 1 (No poverty), 5 (Gender equality), and 8 (Decent work and economic growth). 

Loan is extended at the following terms and conditions: 1.8% annual interest rate, 30 years repayment period, including 10 years grace period.