Sustainable Growth and “Green” Development Discussed with the World Bank

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On the sidelines of the Annual Meetings of the World Bank Group and the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance of the Republic of Uzbekistan Jamshid Kuchkarov met with Antonella Bassani, World Bank Vice President for Europe and Central Asia.

The meeting was also attended by Sameh Wahba, World Bank Regional Director for Sustainable Development in Europe and Central Asia; Charles Cormier, Regional Director for Infrastructure; Asad Alam, Regional Director for Equitable Growth, Finance and Institutions; Central Bank Chairman Timur Ishmetov; Deputy Minister of Economy and Finance Ilkhomjon Umrzakov; and other senior officials.

During the talks, the parties reviewed Uzbekistan’s current macroeconomic situation and medium-term economic outlook. The steady structural reforms being implemented in the country and ongoing efforts to ensure sustainable economic growth were highlighted.

The sides discussed prospects for cooperation under the AgriConnect initiative, aimed at strengthening agricultural value chains and enhancing food security. Particular attention was given to the transformation of state-owned enterprises as a key priority for improving market efficiency and attracting private investment.

Environmental protection and climate change adaptation were major topics of discussion.

The importance of accelerating “green” growth, ensuring water security, and developing climate-resilient infrastructure was underscored.

The meeting also addressed regional connectivity, the advancement of infrastructure projects, and the development of the textile industry, including the expansion of the Better Work Uzbekistan program.

Following the talks, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening the long-term partnership between Uzbekistan and the World Bank, focused on achieving inclusive, sustainable, and long-term economic growth.