Uzbekistan and World Bank Strengthen Partnership with New Projects

Uzbekistan and the World Bank Group have held high-level talks to deepen their bilateral cooperation. The discussions took place during the Spring Meetings in Washington, D.C., with the Uzbek delegation led by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance Jamshid Kuchkarov.

On April 15-16, Kuchkarov met with World Bank Group President Ajay Banga, Managing Director for Operations Anna Bjerde, and Vice President for Europe and Central Asia Antonella Bassani. The meetings traditionally serve as a platform for consultations on socio-economic development issues.

The parties reviewed Uzbekistan's economic development results, the progress of ongoing reforms aimed at poverty reduction, job creation, and private sector development. They also discussed measures to modernize key sectors of the economy with World Bank support.

A significant focus was placed on new initiatives. During a meeting with Antonella Bassani, signed loan agreements were exchanged, paving the way for launching new projects with financial and technical backing from the World Bank.

One major program is focused on developing the electricity market and integrating power systems in Central Asia. This initiative aims to create a regional electricity market, expand grid capacity, and integrate renewable energy sources. The first phase of this project for Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan is allocated over $140 million.

A $100 million project to expand business access to finance was also discussed. This initiative is expected to provide credit resources to approximately 7,000 micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises while attracting private investment.

Furthermore, a $200 million transport connectivity development project is under consideration. It targets modernizing infrastructure in the Surkhandarya region and reforming the transport sector.

Another initiative involves creating a mechanism for detecting and eliminating gas leaks. Funded by a $10.6 million grant, this project aims to reduce losses in an outdated transportation system and cut methane emissions.

As of April 1, 2026, the World Bank's portfolio in Uzbekistan comprises 27 projects with total commitments amounting to $5.6 billion. These ongoing programs cover key areas from agriculture and infrastructure to energy, transport, healthcare, education, and social protection.

The government emphasizes that cooperation with the World Bank remains a crucial factor in implementing macroeconomic reforms and ensuring the country's sustainable development.