World Bank. Photo: cgdev.org
Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Economy and Finance is set to sign an agreement with the World Bank (WB) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) for a loan of $400 million to improve the effectiveness of regional governance. The relevant directive from President Shavkat Mirziyoyev was published on the Lex.uz website.
By September 1, the Ministry must sign an agreement with the WB for $250 million and with the ADB for $150 million to implement the project titled “Results-Based Financing for the Effectiveness of Local Government Bodies and Urban Resilience.”
The funds will be allocated for the accelerated comprehensive development of 16 districts and cities: Yangiyul, Margilan, Sirdarya, Gallyaral, Bulungur, Chortoq, Kuvinsky, Asakinsky, Gijduvan, Yakkabag, Denau, Khatyrchinsky, Shavat, Kungrat, Chimbay, and Khazarasp.
Additionally, 1 trillion sums ($77 million) will be allocated from the state budget to finance social and infrastructure projects that will stimulate economic growth. Priority will be given to initiatives involving foreign partners.
The plan aims to ensure an average industrial production growth of 7-8%, agricultural sector growth of 4-5%, and market services growth of 15-17%. The goal is to reduce unemployment by 4-5%, and four districts along with Margilan will be designated as “poverty-free zones.”
By July 1, simplified procedures will be established to approve updated master plans for the districts and cities covered by the program. These plans will include the division of territories into zones for renovation, reconstruction, and conservation. Additionally, a program will be approved for the construction of unified administrative buildings to house local government offices, public service centers, people's reception offices, various government departments, and party councils.
In 14 districts, unused land (except for cotton and grain fields) will be put up for auction to agricultural investors.
