Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 30 January 2025, Deputy Minister of Economy and Finance Ilkhom Umrzakov held a meeting with a delegation from the Meridiam investment fund, led by Eurasia Director Rémi Hassenforder.

Meridiam is a global investment and asset management company specializing in the development, financing, and operation of long-term social infrastructure projects. Founded in 2005, the fund primarily invests in public infrastructure across Europe, North America, and Africa.

The discussions focused on the potential implementation of key projects in Uzbekistan, particularly the construction of public schools in various regions under an innovative public-private partnership (PPP) model.

Special attention was given to PPP initiatives and prospective cooperation in education, healthcare, transport, and other infrastructure sectors.

Meridiam representatives highlighted Uzbekistan’s strong investment potential and expressed interest in establishing long-term partnerships in social and transport infrastructure. They praised the country’s ongoing reforms and PPP projects, reaffirming their willingness to contribute expertise and offer innovative financial solutions. Notably, the foreign delegation showed interest in the recently announced Tashkent–Andijan toll road project, which includes design, construction, operation, and maintenance.

Additionally, the parties discussed investment attraction mechanisms and financing improvements. Meridiam representatives expressed keen interest in Uzbekistan’s PPP initiatives and exchanged views on expanding cooperation in infrastructure development in line with the principles of long-term sustainable investment.

At the conclusion of the meeting, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to further collaboration and mutual support in implementing joint projects.