Distinguished guests, colleagues, and partners, Good morning.

It is a great pleasure to join you today for the signing of this important partnership. On behalf of UNDP, I would like to express our sincere appreciation to the Coca-Cola company for its generous contribution to the Women’s Entrepreneurship Support Programme. This investment reflects a strong shared commitment to expanding economic opportunities for women across Uzbekistan.

Globally, UNDP envisions that by 2030, the SDGs will guide companies and investors worldwide, mobilizing up to US$1 trillion in private capital and fostering inclusive, green economies.

Today, in Uzbekistan, more than 2 million women across the country are running their own ventures - a sevenfold increase since 2020. Their businesses are creating jobs, driving innovation, and building stronger, more inclusive communities.

Behind these numbers lies a story of determination, reform, and a nationwide effort to ensure every woman with an idea has a chance to make it real.

Many women turned her home-based activities into a prosperous business, and they represent the quiet revolution happening in households and workshops across the country.

Still, the path is far from easy. Women remain underrepresented among formal business owners and managers. Limited access to finance and property, coupled with unequal caregiving responsibilities, continue to shape daily realities. 

That’s where the Women’s Entrepreneurship Support Programme (WESP) steps in. It is a joint project implemented by Hamroh, the Ministry of Economy and Finance and UNDP Uzbekistan - now joined by the Coa cola. We accompany women on every step of their entrepreneurial journey. 

What makes WESP project unique is its holistic approach. The initiative helps women overcome systemic barriers, particularly in rural areas, by providing mentorship, training, and access to finance on favorable terms. Since its launch earlier this year, nearly 800 women received training, and over 100 trainers have graduated. 

In September, with support from Coca-Cola Uzbekistan, a group of WESP entrepreneurs showcased their products at the WorldFood Istanbul 2025 exhibition. For many, it was their first time connecting with international distributors and exploring export opportunities - proof that local ambition can go global. Today, we welcome the new partnership, which enables us to scale what works, and reach more women in underserved regions. 

Once again, I would like to sincerely thank our partners, Hamroh, Ministry of Economy and the Coca Cola for our successful collaboration. We look forward to our great partnership in supporting women’s economic empowerment in Uzbekistan. 

Thank you.