BAKU: The Eurasian Development Bank (EDB) is set to open a direct account with Uzbekistan to facilitate exchange trading, aiming to deepen economic ties and support sustainable energy projects, according to EDB's Chairman Nikolai Podguzov. In a recent interview with Trend, Podguzov detailed the upcoming strategies and the potential benefits of Uzbekistan's integration into the EDB framework. According to Trend News Agency, the discussions between the EDB and the leadership of the Uzbek Republican Currency Exchange have already set the stage for future cooperation. "We will develop our cooperation, as the integration of financial markets is one of the key mandates of the EDB," Podguzov stated. He emphasized the significant benefits that Uzbekistan's membership in the EDB could bring, including major investment projects and stronger industrial connections with other member states. The EDB is considering starting projects in Uzbekistan focused on green energy. "We understand how important green energy is for U zbekistan, as the country plans to increase the share of renewable energy sources in electricity generation to 15 percent by the end of 2024 and is considering ways to transition to carbon-neutral energy by 2050. We are ready to be a reliable partner in achieving these goals," Podguzov explained. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to enhance Central Asia's transport and logistics systems, reducing delivery times and costs, particularly for food products. Furthermore, Podguzov highlighted the potential for developing new transportation routes and improving infrastructure to boost connectivity with fast-growing markets in Asia and the Middle East. He noted that Uzbekistan's involvement in the EDB could lead to significant projects in Central Asia's water and energy sectors, crucial for the region's agriculture and overall energy capacity. As part of its expansion strategy, the EDB plans to establish a strategic country office in Tashkent by the end of the year, which will play a pivotal role in accelerating project funding and collaboration.