The Aga Khan Development Network's (AKDN) Resident Representative in Tajikistan, Ambassador Qozidavlat Qoimdodov, paid a two-day working visit to Khujand, the capital of Sughd Province, on April 21-22 to promote AKDN's cooperation.
ADKN Resident Office in Tajikistan says that during the visit, Ambassador Qoimdodov met with Sughd Governor Rajabboy Ahmadzoda.
The two reportedly exchanged views on the implementation of new projects to improve the province’s economy.
Sughd governor, in particular, noted that Sughd province has many opportunities and with the attraction of investments it is possible to implement projects in various sectors, including industry, for the establishment of small and large enterprises.
It was noted that the parties could cooperate in the establishment of enterprises for the processing of fruits and vegetables, leather, cotton, the introduction of new modern technologies and the construction of innovative greenhouses.
At the same time, the Sughd local authorities noted the role of AKDN's programs in the development of various sectors, including the provision of different regions with irrigation water and made proposals for the continuation of such projects.
Mr. Qoimdodov, for his party, emphasized that the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) in Tajikistan has more than ten different agencies and collaborates with the Tajik authorities in the fields of industry, agriculture, medicine and education.
AKDN is reportedly working with government agencies in Sughd to provide some areas with drinking and irrigation water, to provide a variety of loans through the First Microfinance Bank, and to organize special language courses. AKDN in Tajikistan also plans to build hydroponic greenhouses in the province, and thereby providing practical assistance to ensure food security.
The AKDN Resident Representative also noted that the organization is developing a medium-term program for ten years and the Sughd government could also submit a list of important social projects to attract investment.
The meeting ended with a discussion of plans and prospects for mutually beneficial cooperation.
On April 22, an official opening ceremony of one of the AKDN programs, Accelerate Prosperity, was held in Khujand. The ceremony was attended by AKDN Resident Representative Qozidavlat Qoimdodov, EU Ambassador to Tajikistan Marilyn Josefson, Sughd Deputy Governor for Economic and Financial Affairs Anvar Yaqubi and Tcell Director Ozodkhon Davlatshoyev.
The office is part of the Accelerate Prosperity Project in Central and South Asia, funded by the European Union (EU) and the Aga Khan Foundation of Tajikistan (AKF).
AKDN and its agencies focus on empowering and improving the lives of people in developing countries. AKDN programs are aimed at the well-being of all people, regardless of race, nationality, or religion.
