IN THE FIELD
and Minister of Economy and Finance, Jamshid Kuchkarov, and other o ffi cials. President Alkhalifa said at the Tashkent International Investment Forum together with global leaders of governments and institutions: “We reiterate our firm commitment to continue supporting Uzbekistan’s ambitious aspirations.” He signed a US$20 million loan in support of a government preschool education project, setting up 200 preschools for almost 30,000 children. Education is a key priority of Uzbekistan’s national development plan as a means to reduce poverty, facilitate employment opportunities and create wealth. “Better education equals better jobs and higher incomes," the OPEC Fund President said. He also visited a water supply project in the Samarkand district, in the south of the country. Uzbekistan is not only a country with a promising future – it is also steeped in history. During the Islamic Golden Age (8 th -13 th century) the towns of Bukhara, Samarkand and Khiva blossomed and became centers of commerce, study and culture. Down to the present day this is reflected in immortal masterpieces of architecture and art. Today the cities are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites and restored to their former beauty. The miracles of the past again inspire the future of Uzbekistan and Central Asia.
Clockwise, from top: Caption in here. The OPEC Fund delegation signed a partnership framework agreement and a US$20 million education loan, before visiting the historic city of Samarkand
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