Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — Uzbekistan has outlined priorities for further cooperation with the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), including improving project preparation, developing cross-border infrastructure and expanding the mobilization of private capital, the Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade said.
Uzbekistan’s Minister of Investment, Industry and Trade Laziz Kudratov presented the country’s position at the AIIB’s annual meeting in Qatar. He spoke at a roundtable of governors dedicated to the further development of the Bank’s activities.
It was noted that during its first decade, the AIIB, which brings together 111 member countries, has established an institutional and financial foundation for implementing infrastructure initiatives. At the next stage, the Uzbek side believes greater attention should be paid to the practical impact of financed projects and their contribution to the sustainable development of member countries.
One of the priorities identified was improving the quality of project preparation. More detailed development of technical, financial and organizational parameters at an early stage could accelerate the subsequent implementation of initiatives, improve the efficiency of fund utilization and create conditions for attracting additional capital, according to the Uzbek side.
In this regard, Uzbekistan emphasized the importance of expanding AIIB support during the development of prospective projects.
Particular attention was paid to regional connectivity. Uzbekistan called for greater AIIB involvement in cross-border transport, energy and water infrastructure projects. Such initiatives could contribute to expanding trade and strengthening economic ties between countries and regions.
Another priority is increasing the AIIB’s non-sovereign financing and jointly implementing infrastructure projects with private investors. According to the Uzbek side, this approach would help expand investment beyond exclusively public financing.
Uzbekistan also highlighted the importance of a more active AIIB presence directly in the regions to improve the efficiency of interaction with partner countries and the quality of project support.
Uzbekistan reaffirmed its commitment to further cooperation with the AIIB and its strategic mission, “Infrastructure for Tomorrow.”
