Evgeny Zhukov, the Asian Development Bank’s Director General for Central and West Asia, announced during the 58th Annual Meeting of the Bank’s Board of Governors in Milan that the ADB has financed the construction and reconstruction of 90% of all roads in Tajikistan outside the capital, Dushanbe, The Caspian Post reports citing The Times of Central Asia.
Tajikistan’s Largest Transport Infrastructure Investor
According to Zhukov, Tajikistan has long been a key partner for the ADB. Since the start of cooperation, the bank has invested approximately $2.7 billion in the country, with the majority of funds directed toward public sector development.
“If you travel outside Dushanbe, there is a 90% chance the roads you are on were built or modernized with ADB support. This confirms the effectiveness of our investments,” Zhukov stated.
Laziza Sabirova, Head of Regional Cooperation and Integration at the ADB’s Central and West Asia Department, emphasized the bank’s commitment to quality control. An independent unit evaluates whether project outcomes align with initial objectives and ensures efficient use of funds.
“These specialists assess each project’s relevance and effectiveness, checking if goals were achieved, whether there was overspending, and evaluating construction quality. Post-completion, they also analyze facility use, maintenance, and any further funding needs,” Sabirova explained.
Zhukov also highlighted the ADB’s intent to strengthen cooperation with other international financial institutions, including the World Bank and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank. One of the largest upcoming joint initiatives will involve funding the Rogun hydroelectric power plant. The ADB plans to allocate up to $500 million for this project in the coming years.
Future Development Plans
Earlier announcements indicated that the ADB is planning around 20 major projects in Tajikistan between 2025 and 2029. These initiatives span agriculture, social services, urban development, and energy. Particular emphasis will continue to be placed on improving transport infrastructure to enhance domestic logistics and boost economic ties with neighboring countries.
Currently, the ADB’s portfolio in Tajikistan includes 19 ongoing public investment projects valued at about $1 billion. These cover key sectors such as energy, healthcare, water supply, irrigation, environmental protection, and tourism. In support of these efforts, the ADB has also provided 12 technical assistance grants totaling $11.2 million.
Supporting Economic Stability
Ko Sakamoto, the ADB’s permanent representative in Tajikistan, affirmed the bank’s ongoing partnership with the government to reinforce economic stability and improve living standards.
“Our collaboration with local partners is already producing tangible results, and we are confident that upcoming projects will contribute to sustainable development,” Sakamoto said.
Tajikistan remains one of the largest recipients of ADB grants in Central Asia. Since the beginning of their partnership in 1998, the ADB has delivered significant financial support for vital infrastructure projects, helping lay the groundwork for long-term economic progress.
