Mirziyoyev meets JICA President to strengthen cooperation

On January 21, President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev received a delegation led by Akihiko Tanaka, President of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). The meeting focused on expanding practical cooperation and advancing joint initiatives with this leading international financial institution.

"The leader of our country noted with pleasure that this visit of the head of JICA will start a new stage of cooperation in the economic, financial, and technical spheres. The role of the agency as a strategic partner in supporting the reforms to build a new Uzbekistan was noted," the President’s press service reported.

Currently, the portfolio of joint projects between Uzbekistan and JICA exceeds $8 billion, encompassing energy, transport, agriculture, water management, healthcare, education, and other sectors. Last year, a three-year cooperation program was adopted to further strengthen this partnership.

Notable initiatives include the Uzbekistan-Japan Human Resources Development Center and the Youth Innovation Center, which are operating effectively. Over 2,500 Uzbek specialists have undergone training and practice in Japan through JICA programs. Additionally, Japanese volunteers play an active role in implementing critical social and humanitarian projects in Uzbekistan.

As part of the ongoing collaboration, an agreement was signed on January 20 for the construction and equipping of the Republican Center for Specialized Neurology and Stroke Scientific and Practical Medicine in Tashkent.

President Mirziyoyev expressed strong support for JICA’s plans to expand its activities in Uzbekistan. Key areas of focus include the implementation of private sector projects, establishing a special economic zone for Japanese investors, opening a Japanese university, and enhancing cooperation in professional education.

It was agreed to adopt new mechanisms for promoting current and prospective projects through a detailed "roadmap" for bilateral cooperation.