Uzbekistan, Tashkent – World Bank Group President Ajay Banga held a meeting with Deputy Prime Minister – Minister of Economy and Finance of Uzbekistan Jamshid Kuchkarov. The talks focused on strengthening bilateral partnership and supporting large-scale socio-economic reforms aimed at improving the welfare of the republic's population.

High-level representatives from the World Bank participated in the discussion, including Vice President for Europe and Central Asia Antonella Bassani and Managing Director of Operations Anna Bjerde. The parties analyzed Uzbekistan's current economic growth rates, as well as the results of measures to reduce poverty and modernize key infrastructure sectors.

Particular attention during the dialogue was given to expanding cooperation within the International Development Association (IDA). The parties discussed mechanisms for the effective use of concessional financing to implement socially significant initiatives. The topic of climate resilience was also addressed: under the Water Forward initiative, steps were outlined to enhance cooperation in water resource management and adaptation to climate change.

The Ministry of Economy and Finance highlighted the development of small and medium-sized businesses as one of the priorities of the current reform stage. World Bank representatives confirmed their readiness to provide comprehensive support to Uzbekistan's private sector. Following the meeting, agreements were reached to launch new joint projects, which will serve as a logical continuation of long-term and mutually beneficial partnership.

Source: podrobno.uz