DUSHANBE, November 17, Asia-Plus — The World Bank has released an amount of USD 10.5 million to the Tajik Government under the Second Programmatic Development Policy Grant, press release issued by World Bank said.
The grant aims to improve the environment for private sector development and the overall functioning of the public sector in the country.
The Second Programmatic Development Policy Grant (PDPG2) continues to support the Government’s reform program as outlined in its Poverty Reduction Strategy (PRSP). Specifically, the grant helps the authorities to reduce the burden of licensing and inspections on businesses, to improve transparency and accountability of state-owned enterprises, and to strengthen laws protecting investors. The grant also assists in civil service reform, including reforms of health and education services, aimed at creating a more responsive, accountable, and effective public service.
PDPG2 is the second in a series of three grants through which the World Bank is assisting the Government with improving governance, transparency, and good economic management in the public and private sectors. A third programmatic development policy grant is under preparation. All three grants are closely aligned with investments and technical assistance programs of the World Bank and other development partners in related areas. The grants are provided by the World Bank Group’s International Development Association (IDA). The resources are critical to support Tajikistan’s efforts to promote growth, improve governance, and reduce poverty.
The proposed reforms in health and education are expected to result in improved access and quality of services to the poor. Reforms of public administration are aimed at clarifying the roles and responsibilities of government entities and at building capacity for improved service delivery. The PDPG operations are also intended to help accelerate export growth and diversification of the economy by stimulating investment, which is critical improve productivity and strengthen the competitiveness of Tajikistan’s industries.
