Integration, Investments, and Energy Independence: How the EDB is Expanding Cooperation with Tajikistan

Tajikistan's strategic importance in Central Asia is growing, with its potential to serve as a vital transport and energy bridge connecting regional states. This positioning is central to the country's efforts to integrate into regional processes and overcome its landlocked status, according to Farhod Vosidiyon, Deputy Minister of Economic Development and Trade. At the Eurasian Development Bank's (EDB) annual meeting, Vosidiyon emphasized that future Eurasian competitiveness hinges on robust transport, energy, and digital connectivity.

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The competitiveness of the Eurasian region in the coming years will be determined not only by the volume of investments but also by the ability to create modern transport, energy, and digital connections between countries and regions.

For Tajikistan, developing internal transport arteries is crucial for national economic security, given its lack of direct access to the sea. The country is actively seeking EDB support for projects involving transport and logistics centers, private sector development, energy system digitalization, and the expansion of free economic zones. These initiatives are expected to drive qualitative economic growth.

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For our republic, which lacks direct access to the world ocean, the development of internal transport arteries is a matter of national economic security.

The EDB itself recognizes Tajikistan's economic dynamism, with analysts forecasting an 8.3% GDP growth for the republic in 2026. This projection is fueled by strong domestic investment activity, bolstered by development projects. A tangible example is the "Eurasian Transport Framework" megaproject and a recent $18.5 million agreement to finance a key section of the Labijar, Kalai-Khumb highway. This highway will ensure year-round access between Dushanbe and the Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region, opening new routes to transboundary corridors.

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This will allow achieving qualitative economic growth.

Nikolay Podguzov, Chairman of the EDB Management Board, highlighted Tajikistan as one of the fastest-growing economies within the bank's operational region. The EDB's new strategy for 2027-2031 prioritizes attracting international capital for large-scale investment projects. Key focus areas for increased EDB investment in Tajikistan include overcoming logistical barriers, modernizing the water-energy complex, and stimulating economic activity.

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The EDB has adopted a development strategy for 2027−2031, which includes attracting international capital for the implementation of large investment projects.