On Tuesday, March 7, Tajik President Emomali Rahmon received visiting World Bank Vice President for Europe and Central Asia, Ms. Anna Bjerde, according to the Tajik president’s official website.
During the meeting, the parties reportedly discussed current state and prospects of further expansion of cooperation between Tajikistan and the World Bank.
President Emomali Rahmon expressed his satisfaction with the level of bilateral cooperation between Tajikistan and the World Bank during 30 years of partnership and implementation of various projects in our country with the participation of this financial institution.
In the course of the talks, Mr. Rahmon and Ms. Bjerde reportedly exchanged views on issues related to attracting more investments from development partners in Tajikistan’s health and education sectors, As well as social protection and the population's access to quality food.
The continued support of economic reforms, financing of the development of the energy sector and ensuring food security were considered among the beneficial cooperation between Tajikistan and the World Bank, the Tajik president’s official press center says.
In connection with the complex geopolitical situation of today's world and the intensification of its consequences, it was considered necessary to implement continuous reforms in order to prevent and reduce the impact of risks and negative factors affecting the national economy.
Meanwhile, the World Bank Country Office for Tajikistan says Ms. Bjerde reiterated the World Bank’s commitment to support the government and the people of Tajikistan, including a strong focus on the country’s human capital development, green infrastructure development and enhancing resilience through adaptation to climate change and social protection.
“Human capital investments are of highest priority for the World Bank in Tajikistan, given the country’s demographics and ambitious growth objectives,” said World Bank Regional Vice-President for Europe and Central Asia. “This year we expect three new projects to be financed focusing on education, health, and social protection to help the country build a more inclusive, resilient economy.”
Apart from meeting the President of Tajikistan, members of the cabinet and other government representatives, Ms. Bjerde reportedly also visited several World Bank-financed projects in Khatlon province.
Tajikistan joined the World Bank in 1993 and the International Development Association (IDA) in 1994. Currently, the World Bank is financing 25 projects in Tajikistan totaling US$1.59 billion. Since 1996, the World Bank has provided over US$2.72 billion in IDA grants, highly concessional credits, and trust funds for Tajikistan. The World Bank is committed to continuing its support as the country strives to improve lives and meet the aspirations of its young and growing population.
