Uzbekistan, Citigroup discuss strategic financial partnership

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — Uzbekistan Deputy Prime Minister Jamshid Khodjayev held a meeting with the leadership of Citigroup to discuss the further development of cooperation in financing strategic economic sectors and expanding Uzbekistan's presence in international capital markets.

During the talks, officials noted that Citigroup has cooperated with Uzbekistan for more than three decades, providing support during key stages of the country's entry into international financial markets. In particular, the bank helped organize Uzbekistan's first-ever sovereign Eurobond issue in 2019, as well as several subsequent placements of sovereign and corporate debt instruments.

Special attention was given to the opening of a Citigroup representative office in Tashkent. Participants noted that the office reflects the international financial institution's confidence in Uzbekistan's economic reforms and transformations within its financial sector.

The two sides reviewed prospects for attracting long-term financing for strategically important sectors of the economy, supporting privatization programs and upcoming initial public offerings (IPOs), expanding trade and structured finance instruments, and creating conditions for more active participation by Uzbekistan's private sector in international financial markets.

In addition, the meeting participants discussed transitioning to a more systematic framework through the formation of a strategic financial partnership. This format is expected to facilitate the creation of a long-term portfolio of projects in infrastructure, industry, transport, the digital economy, and other priority areas.

Following the negotiations, both parties reaffirmed their interest in further developing cooperation aimed at attracting investment, strengthening international investor confidence, and expanding opportunities for Uzbek companies in global financial markets.