TASHKENT, Aug. 24 (Xinhua) -- Uzbekistan is targeting an investment grade credit rating and membership in the World Trade Organization (WTO) as part of broader efforts to deepen market reforms and integrate further into the global economy, the country's deputy prime minister said Monday.
Speaking at the Silk Road Finance and Technology Forum in Tashkent, Jamshid Kuchkarov, also minister of economy and finance, said Uzbekistan's economy has expanded significantly in recent years, with an average annual GDP growth of around 6 percent to 7 percent, and total economic output rising from roughly 60 billion U.S. dollars to 180 billion dollars.
"We will work to achieve an investment-grade credit rating, complete Uzbekistan's accession to the World Trade Organization, further reduce the state's presence in the economy and continue market reforms," Kuchkarov said.
He said achieving these goals will strengthen the role of the private sector, expand opportunities for domestic and foreign investors and deepen Uzbekistan's integration into the global economy.
Kuchkarov also stressed the importance of regional and international cooperation and greater connectivity.
Taking place in Tashkent on Aug. 24-26, the forum is held by the Central Bank of Uzbekistan in cooperation with international partners.
