Deputy Prime Minister – Minister of Investment and Foreign Trade of Uzbekistan Sardor Umurzakov met with an International Monetary Fund (IMF) delegation led by Ron van Roden, who is in Uzbekistan for consultations in 2022 on Article IV of the IMF Articles of Agreement, Kun.uz correspondent reports.
According to the MIFT, during the meeting, the investment policy pursued in Uzbekistan, measures taken to improve the investment climate, mechanisms for attracting, supporting and legal protection of foreign investors, as well as the implementation of the State Investment Program were considered.
The issues of improving the investment project management system, the IMF’s public investment management assessment (PIMA) and the role of the newly created Agency for International Cooperation and Development under the MIFT in the context of assisting in the preparation and implementation of projects with the participation of international financial institutions were discussed.
According to the IMF mission, the tangible results of large-scale reforms in Uzbekistan, carried out under the leadership of the head of state, contribute to the formation of a positive image of the country among the world business community. In this regard, the mission noted the timeliness of holding the first Tashkent Investment Forum, which clearly presented Uzbekistan as an attractive investment and stable developing state.
There was also an exchange of views on foreign trade policy and ongoing measures to increase the export potential of Uzbekistan. The results achieved through close and constant interaction with entrepreneurs and exporters were considered.
Uzbekistan’s successes in liberalizing foreign trade, removing barriers in trade relations with key partners and integrating into the world economy were highly appreciated.
Ron van Roden emphasized the role of ongoing reforms in achieving the abolition of the boycott of Uzbek cotton and textiles by the international coalition Cotton Campaign.
Following the meeting, the parties exchanged views on the prospects for further socio-economic development of the country and discussed various forecasts in the investment, trade and economic spheres.
The IMF mission has been in Uzbekistan since March 31, 2022 and held meetings in relevant ministries and departments, during which the current situation in the economy, prospects for its development, as well as economic policy priorities were discussed.
