Uzbekistan Delegation Participates in “UHC High-Level” Forum in Tokyo

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 4 December, a delegation from Uzbekistan, led by Deputy Minister of Economy and Finance Otabek Fazilkarimov, took part in the “UHC High-Level” forum held in Tokyo, Japan.

The event served as a global platform for discussing strategies to strengthen health financing, expand coverage under universal health care (UHC), and enhance the capacity of low- and middle-income countries.

For reference, the forum was organized with the support of the Government of Japan, the World Health Organization (WHO), and the World Bank to accelerate global efforts toward achieving the “UHC 2030” goals.

A key component of this initiative is the “UHC Knowledge Hub,” implemented by Japan in collaboration with WHO and the World Bank, which facilitates the exchange of best practices and innovative solutions for providing quality health services without financial barriers.

Deputy Minister Otabek Fazilkarimov presented Uzbekistan’s priority directions for health system transformation. In his address, he outlined key initiatives aimed at modernizing the sector, including Presidential Decree No. PF–88 of May 19, 2025, “On Measures for the Consistent Improvement of the Health System and Principles of Medical Service Provision to the Population,” and Resolution No. PQ–185 “On Additional Measures for Implementing Health System Reforms.”

Uzbekistan aims to establish a modern, people-centered health care system by 2030. As part of this strategy, medical facilities will be upgraded, with the ultimate goal of fully digitizing the entire system.

Special attention is given to workforce development: continuous professional development programs and a performance-based remuneration system will be implemented. Additionally, the gradual involvement of the private sector in providing diagnostic, dental, and other health services through public-private partnerships is planned to enhance quality and diversify services.

Health financing transformation is also a priority. Since 2021, Uzbekistan has gradually expanded centralized financing and procurement practices for medical services.

To ensure the scale and effectiveness of national reforms from 2025 to 2030, the state budget allocates a total of US$21.4 billion. Simultaneously, Uzbekistan called on international partners to cooperate closely in investing in health infrastructure, providing technical assistance in sector financing, and enhancing the skills of medical personnel.

The forum dialogue further strengthened Uzbekistan’s collaboration with the global community in modernizing its health care system.