Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The Agency for Strategic Reforms (ASR) held a meeting with representatives of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank to discuss improvements in Uzbekistan’s strategic planning system.

The discussions focused on key reforms and the adoption of international standards in the planning process.

During the meeting, participants analyzed the existing strategic planning framework at both the national and sectoral levels. First Deputy Director of the ASR, Abdulla Abdukadirov, noted that the assessment of the current structure began in 2023 with the support of international experts funded by GIZ. The analysis identified around 130 strategic documents, most of which do not meet international standards and lack clear information on the resources required for implementation.

Based on these findings, the ASR developed a draft Presidential Decree on "Priority Measures for the Implementation of the Strategic Planning System." The document establishes a clear hierarchy and classification of strategic documents, defining the key role of the ASR and dedicated strategic planning units within ministries and agencies. A crucial aspect of the project is the integration of strategic planning with program-based budgeting, aimed at improving the efficiency of financial resource allocation.

Special attention was given to the use of objective data in governance processes. In this regard, the Delivery Unit within the ASR is developing a draft law on the "National Data Management System," which will serve as a foundation for data-driven decision-making and enhance the quality of public administration.

Participants also discussed ways to improve the alignment between sectoral strategies and investment programs, integrating them into the budgetary system and the key performance indicators (KPI) framework.

Mechanisms for monitoring strategy implementation and ensuring accountability in budget spending were also reviewed.

One of the key aspects of the discussions was incorporating climate considerations into the strategic planning process. The draft Presidential Decree mandates environmental assessments by the Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection, and Climate Change, ensuring that new strategies align with green development principles and sustainable growth.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the parties reaffirmed their commitment to continued cooperation in establishing an effective strategic planning system in Uzbekistan based on international best practices.