DUSHANBE, November 10, 2014, Asia-Plus -- The Ministry of Finance of Tajikistan and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) in partnership with the Korea Export–Import Bank, and Public Foundation Habitat are sponsoring an energy efficiency expo that will take place at the Kokhi Borbad State Complex in Dushanbe from November 20-22.

According to the ADB Tajikistan Resident Mission (TJRM), the expo titled “Energy Efficiency – Your Wise Choice” will bring together local and international manufacturers, suppliers, and visitors to share energy-saving and efficiency products; new technologies, and alternative energy sources.

“Energy-efficient alternatives will pay off in the medium- to long term, and we hope this event will help increase public awareness, knowledge, and willingness to use energy-efficient products,” said C.C. Yu, ADB’s Country Director for Tajikistan.

ADB approved a $10 million grant for an Access to Green Finance project to help Tajik families increase power access and efficiency through financing of “smart” green energy solutions.  The project is supported by a $750,000 grant from the Japan Fund for Poverty Reduction for capacity building technical assistance.

Tajikistan joined ADB in 1998 and, to date, ADB has approved total assistance of over $1.2 billion in concessional loans, grants, and technical assistance to the country.  The 16 years of ADB-Tajikistan partnership has promoted social development, restored and built new infrastructure, expanded agricultural production, and encouraged regional cooperation and trade under the CAREC Program.

ADB, based in Manila, dedicates itself to reducing poverty in Asia and the Pacific through inclusive economic growth, environmentally sustainable growth, and regional integration. Established in 1966, it is owned by 67 members – 48 from the Asia-Pacific region. In 2013, ADB assistance totaled $21.0 billion, including cofinancing of $6.6 billion.

The Export-Import Bank of Korea, also commonly known as the Korea Eximbank (KEXIM), is the official export credit agency of South Korea.  The bank was first established in 1976.  Its primary purpose is to support South Korea''s export-led economy by providing loans, financing mega projects and thereby facilitating economic cooperation with other countries.