Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) -- On 13 October 2020, the Chairman of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan Tanzila Narbaeva met with the World Bank Regional Director for Central Asia Lilia Burunciuc.

The parties discussed issues related to the current state and prospects of bilateral cooperation. It was emphasized that the constructive interaction of Uzbekistan with the World Bank received a new impetus in the light of the fundamental transformations carried out in the country in recent years. Financial, technical and advisory assistance from an authoritative international structure contributes to the solution of the most important tasks in priority areas. 

Among them are the development of education, health care, financial and private sectors. Joint projects are also being implemented in the areas of public administration, agriculture, environmental protection and natural resource management. This process continues consistently, despite the worldwide pandemic.

Speaking about its consequences, it was emphasized that Uzbekistan is one of the few countries in the world where economic growth is observed. In this regard, it was emphasized that this is the result of deep social and political reforms carried out in the country in recent years. It was noted that an authoritative international structure is ready to continue to provide recommendations and financial resources in order to increase the effectiveness of the reforms.

During the meeting, the parties also touched upon Uzbekistan’s measures to prevent forced labor in the cotton harvest, gender issues and relevant aspects of further mitigating the economic consequences of the pandemic. 

Lilia Burunciuc noted with satisfaction the decisive and effective measures taken by the leadership of Uzbekistan to prevent forced labor and protect human rights, as well as ensure gender equality. “I am overwhelmed with a sense of pride for everything that Uzbekistan has accomplished in such a short time. Much has been done on all vital issues such as ensuring decent work, empowering women and supporting youth. This is the result of the efforts of the country’s leadership,” she stressed.

The meeting was also attended by the newly appointed head of the World Bank Office in Uzbekistan, Marco Mantovanelli.