Since the start of its engagement in Uzbekistan, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has facilitated projects worth $3.7bn in critical areas, including energy, education, agriculture, infrastructure, and healthcare. Building on this foundation, JICA is poised to expand its role in supporting Uzbekistan’s sustainable development through new initiatives.
On January 20, Laziz Kudratov, Uzbekistan's Minister of Investment, Industry, and Trade, held talks with Dr. Akihiko Tanaka, President of JICA, to review the progress of ongoing projects and explore additional areas for collaboration. During the meeting, JICA’s contributions to advancing Uzbek-Japanese relations were highlighted, along with its steadfast commitment to future projects.
Discussions centered on new opportunities for financing initiatives in energy, healthcare, human capital development, and the creation of free economic zones across Uzbekistan. The meeting also reviewed the Private Sector Investment Financing (PSIF) program, launched by JICA in 2022, which supports investment projects without requiring state guarantees. The program is gaining momentum, with a new portfolio of promising projects under development.
Separately, progress was assessed on 20 ongoing initiatives totaling $2.4bn, stressing the scale of JICA’s involvement in Uzbekistan’s growth.
The meeting concluded with the signing of several key agreements. These included the Exchange of Notes for a $150mn loan agreement with the Japanese government to construct and equip the Republican Specialized Scientific and Practical Medical Center of Neurology and Stroke.
Additionally, Minutes of Cooperation were signed to implement projects in animal husbandry, energy, education, and other strategic areas.
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