The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is launching a pilot project in Tajikistan to issue bonds aimed at mitigating the consequences of natural disasters.  This initiative was discussed during a meeting between ADB representatives and the leadership of the National Bank of Tajikistan (NBT) that took place in Dushanbe on December 10.

The NBT press center says participants noted that climate change in the region has led to an increase in natural disasters in recent years. Addressing the aftermath of such events requires substantial financial resources, often surpassing the capacity of existing funding mechanisms.

The project is reportedly designed to reduce both physical and financial vulnerabilities associated with climate change and natural disasters. It will serve as a protective insurance mechanism.

The issuance of such bonds aims to ensure the rapid allocation of necessary financial resources while reducing the burden on the state budget during emergencies. The bonds would act as a source of immediate liquidity in the event of a disaster.

The parties also discussed the project's implementation mechanisms and explored avenues for collaboration with key stakeholders, including government agencies, private companies, and international organizations.

This initiative underscores the need for innovative financial solutions to bolster resilience against the growing frequency and intensity of natural disasters in Tajikistan and the broader region.