The Grant aims at supporting the preparation of the proposed Syrdarya Water Supply and Sanitation Project, which has as its objectives to improve the quality of life and quality of basic municipal services through the provision of water supply and sanitation in Syrdarya region and its six districts.

The Project will finance i) strategic rehabilitation and efficiency improvement of existing facilities in critical condition, ii) institutional strengthening of the six districts water utilities; and iii) strengthening of the six districts water utilities’ financial capacity through improved financial management and commercial practices.

The activities for which the Grant is given include preparation of feasibility studies, detailed designs, environmental, social, economic and other assessments, development of Project implementation plans, carrying out of stakeholder consultations, in-country training, studies and workshops, surveys, and provision of technical advisory services (including audits) and goods required for the carrying out of such activities.

Annette Dixon, the World Bank’s Country Director for Central Asia, says: “The World Bank has been active in Uzbekistan water supply sector for several years. Under the recently approved Country Assistance Strategy (CAS), the Government requested further financial support for water supply and sanitation for 5 new projects in rural and urban areas of Uzbekistan. The investment program includes the above mentioned Syrdarya project, for which the Bank allocated USD 88 million of International Development Agency (IDA) funds. With the support of the grant signed today, provided by the Government of Japan, we look forward to the successful preparation of this Project.”

On behalf of the Government of Uzbekistan the Grant agreement was signed by Mr. Rustam Azimov, The First Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Finance. Annette Dixon, Country Director for Central Asia signed the Agreement on behalf of the World Bank.

Uzbekistan joined the World Bank in 1992. The World Bank’s mission in the country is to improve people’s livelihoods through being a partner in economic reforms, supporting the modernization of the country’s social sectors and infrastructure, and sharing its knowledge and experience with the government and the people of Uzbekistan.

Total World Bank commitments to Uzbekistan amount to US$722 million.