Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Kapitalbank JSCB and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) have signed a memorandum of cooperation aimed at jointly implementing initiatives in social inclusion, gender equality, and support for women’s entrepreneurship, the UNFPA press service reported.

The agreement establishes a framework for collaboration in which the parties will pool resources and expertise to promote sustainable development, improve financial literacy, overcome gender stereotypes, and enhance accessibility for people with disabilities. Special attention will be given to creating a corporate culture based on equal opportunities and implementing flexible HR policies, including parental leave and support for employees caring for family members.

The memorandum was signed by Maksud Abdusamadov, Chairman of Kapitalbank’s Supervisory Board, and Dr. Nigina Abaszade, UNFPA Resident Representative in Uzbekistan.

— “For us, this is not just an agreement, but a roadmap for implementing concrete projects that will yield tangible results both within the bank and beyond. The ‘Kapitalbank.Women’ program and the ‘Equal Opportunities’ initiative are aimed at creating an inclusive environment, fostering women’s leadership, and ensuring accessible services for all client groups,” said Maksud Abdusamadov.

Dr. Nigina Abaszade emphasized that collaboration with the private sector opens new opportunities to advance gender equality and build a society that values respect, equal rights, and support for everyone.

As part of the women’s leadership program for bank employees, trainings, mentoring sessions, workshops, expert meetings, and the creation of a talent pool prioritizing women’s advancement into managerial positions are planned. The ‘Equal Opportunities’ project includes upgrading branches and ATMs according to accessibility principles, adapting banking products, and training staff in inclusive service standards.

The partnership aligns with Uzbekistan’s national strategies and legislative initiatives on gender equality and the rights of people with disabilities, as well as the UN Sustainable Development Goals, including SDG 5, SDG 8, and SDG 10.

The UNFPA has been active in Uzbekistan since 1993, implementing projects in health and social development. The agency is currently carrying out its fifth Country Program (2020–2025) in collaboration with national partners.