Core Insights - Uzbekistan is projected to remain among the top five fastest-growing economies in Europe and Central Asia in 2025 and 2026, with growth rates of 6.2% and 6% respectively, an increase from previous forecasts of 5.9% [1][1][1] Economic Growth Projections - Kyrgyzstan is expected to lead the region with growth rates of 9.2% in 2025 and 6.5% in 2026 [1] - Tajikistan's growth is forecasted at 7.6% for 2025 and 5.2% for 2026 [1] - Georgia is projected to grow by 7% in 2025 and 5.5% in 2026 [1] - Kazakhstan's growth rates are expected to be 5.5% in 2025 and 4.5% in 2026 [1] Regional Economic Context - The overall economic growth for Europe and Central Asia is projected to decline to 2.4% in 2025, down from 3.7% in 2024, primarily due to the slowdown in the Russian economy [1] - Average growth for the region is expected to rise to 2.6% in 2026-2027 [1] - Geopolitical uncertainties, tensions in international trade, and persistent inflation pressures are increasing the economic vulnerabilities in the region [1] Central Asia Economic Outlook - The economic growth for Central Asia is anticipated to reach 5.9% in 2025 and 5% in 2026, supported by increased oil production in Kazakhstan and rising foreign exchange reserves and investments in Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan [1]