Uzbekistan, JICA Discuss US$2.9bn Project Program Pipeline

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 21 May, Minister of Investment, Industry and Trade of Uzbekistan Laziz Kudratov held talks with the new Head of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Representative Office in Uzbekistan Mamoru Sakai and his predecessor Bito Yoshibumi.

During the negotiations, the key role of JICA as one of Uzbekistan’s strategic partners in implementing projects in the fields of energy, transport, agriculture, healthcare, education, and infrastructure was emphasized.

The sides noted that a long-term program is currently being developed jointly with JICA, which includes 17 prospective projects with a total value of $2.9 billion.

Particular attention was paid to the development of special economic zones, as well as the One Village – One Product initiative. The preparation of new agreements for signing at the upcoming 5th Tashkent International Investment Forum was also discussed.

The parties also reviewed cooperation in STEM education, including the establishment of laboratories in collaboration with Japanese universities.

During the meeting, Laziz Kudratov expressed gratitude to Bito Yoshibumi for his contribution to strengthening the strategic partnership between Uzbekistan and Japan and congratulated Mamoru Sakai on his appointment as Head of the JICA Representative Office in Uzbekistan.