Islamic Development Bank Reaffirms Support for Inclusive Growth at Forum in Namangan

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive development and poverty reduction at the 3rd International Forum on Poverty Reduction held in Namangan, Uzbekistan.

Organized in close collaboration with the Government of Uzbekistan, the forum brought together global leaders to develop effective solutions aimed at accelerating poverty reduction amid global economic challenges.

Dr. Muhammad Al Jasser, President of the IsDB, delivered the keynote address at the opening ceremony. In his speech, Dr. Al Jasser praised Uzbekistan’s transformative reforms under the visionary leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, stating: “Uzbekistan’s bold social and economic initiatives set an example for the region. Through strategic partnership, we witness tangible change, where investments translate into opportunities, jobs, and a brighter future for millions of people.”

As a long-standing partner of Uzbekistan, the IsDB Group has mobilized over US$4.96 billion in cumulative support, prioritizing finance, agriculture, and infrastructure.

In 2025 alone, the bank allocated more than US$523 million to projects with significant social impact, including investments in healthcare, education, and rural development. The forum served as a vital platform to launch new initiatives, including targeted empowerment of youth and women, and to exchange expertise in digital innovation and inclusive growth.

President Mirziyoyev emphasized that since 2016, Uzbekistan’s consistent reforms have lifted 7.5 million people out of poverty, reducing the national poverty rate to 8.9% in 2024, with a target of 6% by the end of 2025. “Behind every statistic is a family whose dignity and aspirations have been restored. Our progress is driven by innovation, international cooperation, and unwavering belief in the potential of our people,” he said.

The president welcomed the IsDB’s steadfast partnership and continued support for Uzbekistan’s reform agenda, highlighting Dr. Al Jasser’s determination to strengthen the bank’s global role, including the adoption of a new 10-year strategic framework (2026–2035). He noted that IsDB’s priorities align with Uzbekistan’s national strategy, focusing on key areas such as job creation, private sector growth, agricultural development, and social advancement.

The forum concluded with a renewed commitment from both the IsDB and Uzbekistan to building resilient communities and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals.

These efforts reflect the IsDB’s mission to equip communities with the tools to chart their own path toward prosperity.