Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 26 September, during the 9th Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), a session titled "Uzbekistan – A Big Country with Big Opportunities" took place, along with an international forum on resource mobilization.

In his welcoming speech, Laziz Kudratov, Minister of Investments, Industry, and Trade of the Republic of Uzbekistan, emphasized the significance of holding the AIIB Annual Meeting in Samarkand, which has historically served as a bridge between East and West, North and South, playing a key role along the Silk Road.

He outlined the ambitious goals of the "Strategy 2030," including achieving the status of a country with upper-middle-income by 2030, with 85% of the economy supported by the private sector and 40% of energy produced from renewable sources. Efforts are also underway to double labor productivity and increase exports to $45 billion.

Kudratov expressed gratitude to participants for their unwavering support of Uzbekistan’s economic and investment reforms, assuring them of the ministry’s readiness to provide comprehensive assistance for joint initiatives aimed at mutual progress and prosperity.

"Uzbekistan is transforming, and you are our partners on this exciting journey. Your support, advice, and investments will help us make remarkable progress in the coming decade. By meeting here in Samarkand, we continue the traditions of trade, dialogue, and innovation that have defined this great city for centuries. On behalf of the Ministry of Investments, Industry, and Trade of the Republic of Uzbekistan, I welcome you and thank you," said Laziz Kudratov.

The session also featured speeches from Jin Liqun, President of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, Wenkai Zhang, Managing Director and Chief Administrative Officer of the World Bank Group, as well as major international investors and experts.

The second part of the session, titled "International Forum on Resource Mobilization," focused on discussing practical aspects of priority cooperation areas with international donors and investment funds.

Opinions and comments were shared by international experts, reputable international banks, funds, and the country’s partners on the most promising areas for developing investment cooperation and implementing projects in Uzbekistan.