Uzbekistan deepens strategic ties with ADB ahead of Samarkand Summit

Uzbekistan is set to host the 59th Annual Meeting of the Asian Development Bank (ADB), marking a significant milestone in the country’s growing role within the global financial landscape

ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 4th May, 2026) Uzbekistan is set to host the 59th Annual Meeting of the Asian Development Bank (ADB), marking a significant milestone in the country’s growing role within the global financial landscape.

The high-level gathering will bring together financial leaders and policymakers from 69 member countries, alongside representatives of major international organizations. Discussions are expected to center on pressing development challenges across Asia and pathways for sustainable economic growth,said a release issued here on Monday.

Discussions will focus on the key development challenges facing the countries of Asia and possible ways to address them, Dr. Dmitriy Trostyanskiy Chief research fellow, Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies

under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, wrote a aticles.

Hosting the event underscores Uzbekistan’s rising international profile, driven by sweeping economic reforms under President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. The country has demonstrated strong economic resilience, with GDP surpassing US$ 145 billion in 2025 and foreign exchange reserves exceeding US$ 60 billion. Foreign investment has surged to US $43.1 billion, while exports climbed by 23 percent to US$ 33.

4 billion.

A cornerstone of this progress is Uzbekistan’s expanding partnership with the ADB.

To date, the joint portfolio includes 174 projects valued at US$ 27.5 billion, positioning the bank as one of the nation’s leading development partners.

In August 2024, the ADB launched a new five-year partnership strategy (2024–2028) focused on green growth, private sector development, and human capital investment.

This was followed by a Memorandum of Understanding covering 28 projects worth US$ 4.2 billion for 2026–2028.

Looking ahead, Uzbekistan plans to formalize an "Expanded Strategic Partnership Programme for 2027–2030", aimed at strengthening social resilience and accelerating long-term reforms.

Experts note that cooperation between Uzbekistan and the ADB has evolved beyond traditional financing into a comprehensive strategic alliance.

The partnership now plays a critical role in shaping reforms, modernizing infrastructure, and integrating the country into global economic systems.

The upcoming Samarkand meeting is expected to further boost Uzbekistan’s position as a regional hub for investment dialogue, while opening new avenues for sustainable development and international collaboration.