ADB’s program for Tajikistan targets inclusive growth

DUSHANBE, December 8, 2011, Asia-Plus – The Asian Development Bank (ADB) plans a $215.1 million grant program for Tajikistan in the next three years to help develop energy and transport infrastructure and reforms, including renewable energy alternatives, and support private sector development, press release issue by the ADB Tajikistan Resident Mission (TJRM) said.

“ADB’s program in the country is well aligned with the government’s National Development Strategy and its Poverty Reduction Strategy,” said Joji Tokeshi, ADB’s Country Director for Tajikistan.  “ADB supports Tajikistan in tackling its most critical development constraints, and has sharpened its focus on poverty and inclusive growth.”

ADB operations will benefit the population by reducing isolation, increasing communication, improving access to electricity, more efficient social services, and creating more income-generating opportunities.

ADB assistance for 2012 is expected to be $62 million in grants.  This would be followed by anticipated assistance levels of $84.3 million grant, and $69 million grant in 2013 and 2014, respectively.  However, final amounts will depend on the country’s performance and the availability of ADB funds.

The proposed 2012 program includes the Ayni-Penjakent-Uzbekistan border highway upgrade project; access to green finance project; and two projects to help communities with transport and energy infrastructure for possible funding by the Japan Fund for Poverty Reduction.

Tajikistan joined ADB in 1998.  Since that time, ADB has approved a total of over $850 million in concessional loans, grants and technical assistance to the country.

ADB, based in Manila, is dedicated to reducing poverty in Asia and the Pacific through inclusive economic growth, environmentally sustainable growth and regional integration.  Established in 1966, it is owned by 67 members – 48 from the region.  In 2010, ADB approvals, including co-financing, totaled $17.51 billion.  In addition, ADB's ongoing Trade Finance Program supported $2.8 billion in trade.