The 9th Annual Meeting of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) strengthened international cooperation on the development of sustainable infrastructure for the future.
On September 26, the first-ever AIIB Annual Meeting hosted in Central Asia successfully concluded in the historic city of Samarkand. The event welcomed over 2,500 delegates from 100 countries, including influential policymakers, senior leaders from international organizations, business executives, and investment experts. This milestone gathering served as a platform for addressing the future of sustainable and resilient infrastructure development globally. The opening ceremony was headlined by the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, and AIIB President Jin Liqun, who both underlined the importance of multilateral cooperation to address global infrastructure challenges.
Over the course of two days, more than 30 sessions were held, focusing on pressing issues such as transportation connectivity, road infrastructure, green transition, renewable energy, and modern communication systems. The event promoted cross-border connectivity, with experts delving into successful case studies and innovative approaches to investment instruments in capital markets. Private sector involvement was one of the key topics, as AIIB experts and key clients shared insights on using advanced financial tools to mobilize private capital for infrastructure development.
Countries like Laos, Egypt and Uzbekistan presented exemplary case studies, demonstrating how strategic investments can successfully address local infrastructure needs while contributing to broader sustainable development goals. These discussions highlighted the importance of adaptability and innovation in infrastructure projects.
A major highlight of the event was Uzbekistan's prominent role, not just as the host nation but as a pivotal partner for AIIB. Since AIIB’s inception, over USD 3.1 billion has been invested in Uzbekistan’s infrastructure projects, showcasing the country’s rapid transformation. In early 2024, this partnership deepened further with the signing of a three-year agreement that will unlock an additional USD 2.6 billion for projects.
Two dynamic panel discussions united by a general theme "New Uzbekistan – A Great Country with Great Opportunities," spotlighted the country’s growing economic potential and attractiveness for foreign investment. Participants underscored Uzbekistan's unique position as a gateway to Central Asia, with its strategic geographic location and ambitious economic reforms making it a top investment destination in the region.
In addition, AIIB unveiled its latest digital solution, AIIB+, a first-of-its-kind interface designed to better match external concessional and technical resources with AIIB's project pipeline.
Strategic Agreements and Looking Ahead
A significant outcome of the Annual Meeting was the signing of a series of strategic agreements, including partnerships focused on renewable energies. These agreements reflect AIIB’s commitment to driving sustainable infrastructure development across Asia and beyond.
The meeting concluded with a ceremonial handover of the host country to China, announcing the Bank’s 10th Annual Meeting will be held in Beijing in June 2025.
About AIIB
The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) is a multilateral development bank whose mission is Financing Infrastructure for Tomorrow in Asia and beyond—infrastructure with sustainability at its core. We began operations in Beijing in 2016 and have since grown to 109 approved members worldwide. We are capitalized at USD100 billion and AAA-rated by the major international credit rating agencies. Collaborating with partners, AIIB meets clients’ needs by unlocking new capital and investing in infrastructure that is green, technology-enabled and promotes regional connectivity.
