The Uzbekistan Direct Investment Fund (UzDIF) in partnership with Zarmed Pratiksha, a leading private healthcare provider, supported a UZS 64 bn ($5 mn) social corporate bond issuance, aiming to bolster sustainable investment practices within Uzbekistan. The transaction was initiated under UzDIF's Memorandum of Cooperation with the Astana Green Finance Center, established on April 13.

Partnering with Zarmed Pratiksha, UzDIF is spearheading efforts to adopt International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), enhance corporate governance, and acquire an ESG rating compliant with International Capital Markets Association (ICMA) standards.

The document was signed by Viktor Moiseev, an Interim CEO at UzDIF, Manas Gizhduaniyev, Deputy Chairman of the Management Board at Astana Green Finance Centre, Amir Dalerov, Executive Director at Zarmed Pratiksha.

UzDIF's invitation to other capital market participants to anchor the issuance of these bonds is an effort to broaden participation in sustainable investment practices. This collaborative approach not only reinforces UzDIF's leadership but also encourages a more inclusive and diverse financial sector in Uzbekistan.

Zarmed Pratiksha's involvement in the bond issuance signifies a commitment to improving healthcare accessibility in Uzbekistan. The creation of at least 200 new jobs and the enhancement of medical services in key regions of the country demonstrate a tangible impact on the healthcare landscape.