(MENAFN- Trend News Agency)
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 23. The Asian
Development bank (ADB) is currently working on a new Country
Partnership Strategy (CPS) for Azerbaijan, which will guide its
investments and initiatives from 2025 to 2029, said ADB Country
Director for Azerbaijan Sunniya Durrani-Jamal in an exclusive
interview with Trend .
She emphasized that the strategy will be informed by
comprehensive diagnostic work across several critical areas,
including green infrastructure financing, water resources and food
security, export diversification, and the development of green
skills.
Durrani-Jamal expressed her vision for improving ADB's
operational approach, stating, "I hope to be able to improve our
operational approach and clearly communicate the value we offer to
our clients". She noted that ADB aims to move away from standalone
sector projects, instead fostering dialogue among government
entities to collaboratively develop multi-sector solutions. She
elaborated, "Of course, the projects could be delivered by separate
ministries, but the results will be delivered through
collaboration".
Highlighting the importance of efficient resource use, she
pointed out the necessity of ensuring sufficient water availability
for expanding agricultural production amidst anticipated water
scarcity. "A case in point is improving efficiency in water use and
energy use," Durrani-Jamal said.
Another focal point of the strategy is transitioning
Azerbaijan's economy from a hydrocarbon-based model to one that is
centered on manufacturing, logistics, and eventually,
knowledge-based industries. Durrani-Jamal acknowledged the
government's efforts to incentivize investments in techno parks and
promote digital skills development, especially for girls and in
regions beyond Baku. "The government is actively providing
incentives to encourage investments in techno parks and encouraging
digital skills development including for girls and in regions
outside Baku to ensure equity," she noted.
To attract both domestic and international investment,
Durrani-Jamal underscored the necessity of continuous improvements
in governance and transparency. "Several steps are being taken in
this direction from the establishment of ASAN service centers for
citizens to improving governance and transparency among state-owned
enterprises and financial institutions," she explained. Addressing
challenges such as fostering the growth of small businesses,
creating a robust middle class, and implementing policies that
support affordable housing will require persistent efforts. "These
are tough challenges that will need to be addressed steadily," she
added.
Durrani-Jamal concluded with optimism about ADB's role in
Azerbaijan's development, stating, "We have a talented team at ADB,
and I am confident that with their support and the support of our
partners, ADB will continue to make significant contributions to
the development of Azerbaijan and the region".
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