Uzbekistan

SECO’s interventions in Uzbekistan are complementary to those of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) under the joint Swiss Cooperation Strategy for Central Asia. The focus of Swiss engagement for Central Asia, and thus for Uzbekistan, is on supporting economic, social and democratic development, strengthening economic ties, promoting good governance as well as an integrated and regional approach in the complex field of transboundary water management. In partnership with the Uzbek Government and private stakeholders, SECO supports programmes fostering inclusive and sustainable economic development and promoting the management of their water resources in a climate-resilient, sustainable and inclusive way.

Uzbekistan’s reforms have stimulated its economy by harnessing the country’s considerable potential for agricultural and industrial exports. Nevertheless, large segments of the economy are still in the hands of state-owned enterprises. Overall, the economic situation is still very vulnerable to external shocks and was further complicated by security concerns arising from border conflicts and Russia’s military aggression against Ukraine. Therefore, strengthening the resilience of the economy against such external shocks is key. In this regard, Uzbekistan has yet to implement systematically the strategies and programmes to develop its economy in greener, more sustainable ways, including foreign investments, and to increase women’s economic participation. Micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) could serve as key drivers of growth, but their growth is hindered by weak enforcement of the legal framework, as well as by challenges related to corruption.

interior of a rehabilitated pumping station, large pipe and turbine arrangement
SECO supports Uzbekistan in its efforts to provide its population with a reliable, sustainable and climate-proof water resources management system.

What are SECO’s objectives?

SECO and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) jointly define and implement the Swiss cooperation programme 2022-2025 for Central Asia. As an overall goal, Switzerland will contribute to peace and social cohesion as well as to responsive and strengthened institutions and sustainable development in order to improve the resilience of the population in Central Asia. In this framework, SECO focuses on a conducive business environment, climate-resilient planning as well as on sustainable water management infrastructure, including:

  • Water, infrastructure, urban development and climate change
    SECO supports Uzbek’s efforts to provide climate change resilient, reliable and sustainable urban water management. It fosters the development of legal and policy frameworks to advance water sector reforms and aims to strengthen institutions and build the capacities needed for sustainable and resilient service delivery.
  • Competitive and environmentally friendly Business Environment
    SECO is working to strengthen the business economic framework conditions and effective responsible financial services in a stable and inclusive financial sector. It also fosters micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), government and others to operate in a sustainable business environment with access to a skilled workforce and innovative technologies.

Good governance, gender equality are integrated in a transversal manner in all the interventions.

From 2022 to 2025, a total of some CHF 33,6 million is foreseen for Swiss transition cooperation with Uzbekistan, of which around CHF 15 million is from SECO.

Last modification 24.03.2023

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