The Government of Tajikistan and the Asian Development Bank have signed two previously approved grants totaling $71 million, which are aimed at creating a climate-resilient business environment, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises and increasing renewable energy production, Asia-Plus reports.
The agreements were signed in Dushanbe by Tajikistan's Finance Minister Fayziddin Qahhorzoda and ADB Resident Representative in the country Shanny Campbell.
"The $50 million Climate Resilient Business Environment Improvement Program is aimed at transforming the business environment in Tajikistan, including through digitalization, export-increasing reforms, improved infrastructure management, financial transparency and support for climate-resilient SMEs," the Bank's representative office in the country said in a press release.
Another $21 million grant will replace Unit 4 at the Golovnaya HPP (Sarband HPP), which failed in 2019 due to damage to mechanical equipment. Once fully modernized, the hydropower plant’s installed capacity will increase from 240 megawatts in 2012 to 274 megawatts by 2026.
The first grant was approved by the ADB Board of Directors in late July, and the second in early August.
ADB is Tajikistan’s largest financial donor, supporting a wide range of sectors for 26 years, from strategic road and energy infrastructure to health, education, agriculture, urban development, public sector management, and finance.
Over the years, Tajikistan has received over $2.6 billion from ADB, including grants worth over $2 billion.
Since 2018, Tajikistan has received only grant-based financial assistance from ADB.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
August 13, 2024