DUSHANBE, March 19, 2009, Asia-Plus — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and Tajikistan have celebrated 10 years of partnership in promoting economic growth and improving living standards in the country today, according to press release issued by the ADB Tajikistan Resident Mission (TJRM).
“ADB is proud of the strong partnership established with Tajikistan, and we will continue to work together to promote social and economic development in the country,” visiting ADB”s Vice-President Xiaoyu Zhao said.
Tajikistan joined ADB in 1998. ADB has been supporting poverty reduction in the country through investments in infrastructure, agriculture and rural development, social sector, and regional cooperation. As of the end of 2008, Tajikistan received $372.50 million in loans, $33.65 million in technical assistance, and $97.27 million in grants. The investments have been accompanied by critical policy reforms and institutional development.
ADB is committed to continue its assistance to Tajikistan in the coming years. Indicative allocation from ADB’s Asian Development Fund is estimated at $102 million on a grant basis for 2009 and 2010. ADB and 11 other development partners are preparing a Joint Country Support Strategy for 2009-2012, which is aimed at guiding future operations of ADB with other development partners in Tajikistan.
“It is proposed that ADB”s assistance program during 2009-2012 covers investments mainly in energy and transport. In order to mobilize adequate resources for development, ADB will also support critical reforms in key sectors. These areas of engagement are in line with the Government”s priorities as articulated in the Tajikistan’s Poverty Reduction and National Development Strategies,” says Makoto Ojiro, ADB’s Country Director for Tajikistan.
ADB, based in Manila, is dedicated to reducing poverty in the Asia and Pacific region through inclusive economic growth, environmentally sustainable growth, and regional integration. Established in 1966, it is owned by 67 members – 48 from the region. In 2008, it approved $10.5 billion of loans, $811.4 million of grant projects, and technical assistance amounting to $274.5 million.
