The European Investment Bank (EIB) has opened a regional office in Uzbekistan's capital Tashkent, marking a major step in strengthening its presence across Central Asia and accelerating investment projects throughout the region.

The new office will enable the EIB to work more closely with local partners and provide stronger support for strategic infrastructure and development initiatives, The Caspian Post reports via 24kg.

As part of the European Union’s Global Gateway initiative, the EIB is assisting to build a project portfolio worth nearly €3 billion in Central Asia. The investments are expected to focus on transport, energy, digital infrastructure, water management, and climate resilience.

A key priority for the bank is the development of the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor, alongside major regional energy projects aimed at boosting connectivity and economic growth.

In Uzbekistan alone, the EIB is currently exploring projects worth around €1 billion in cooperation with government agencies. Planned investments could support transport modernization, clean energy, digital connectivity, and healthcare development.

The European Investment Bank has been active in Central Asia since 2009, financing projects in Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.