Speaking with the agency, Dowson welcomed creation of Navoi free industrial-economic zone (FIEZ) in Uzbekistan. He said Navoi FIEZ is strategic project, which will be a key factor for cardinal growth of economy in Uzbekistan.

Dowson said Navoi FIEZ will open new opportunities for fruitful cooperation in such sectors as energy, transport, trade, international production, etc.

ADB official reminded that the ADB Board of Governors adopted decision to hold the 43rd Annual Meeting in Tashkent in May 2010. He added that this will be the first Annual Meeting of the ADB, which was held in Central Asian region.

Dowson said that the annual meeting participants discuss issues of international cooperation with the ADB, hold business sessions, which presents economic development and ADB’s role in the member states’ activity. He said it is planned to hold regional presentation in next Annual Meeting.

The report said the delegation of ADB held negotiations with representatives of various ministries and departments of Uzbekistan to discuss organization issues of upcoming event.

ADB Secretary said a lot should be done to prepare to the event, but he added that he is sure that the event will be held successfully. He said Tashkent has good infrastructure to welcome over 2,000 guests. Dowson said that the event is good opportunity for Uzbekistan t present its social-economic development, rich history, culture, traditions and customs of the Uzbek people.