Opportunities to attract companies to Uzbekistan discussed with the Ambassador of Japan

The Minister of Digital Technologies of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Sherzod Shermatov, convened a meeting with the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Uzbekistan, H.E. Kenji Hirata. During this discussion, the two parties explored ways to enhance bilateral cooperation in the areas of digital technologies, telecommunications, education, and artificial intelligence.

In the course of the meeting, the Minister highlighted ongoing initiatives aimed at promoting foreign language education in Uzbekistan, particularly emphasizing the increasing interest in the Japanese language. In this regard, both sides examined potential avenues for attracting Japanese volunteers and companies to Uzbekistan, including its rapidly developing and remote areas.

The Minister pointed out that IT Park Uzbekistan is fostering a conducive environment for Japanese enterprises. He specifically mentioned the relatively low costs associated with doing business in remote regions, which present substantial opportunities for sustained collaboration. Additionally, it was emphasized that local authorities are actively backing initiatives designed to boost youth employment in their respective areas.

The dialogue also included discussions on potential collaboration in constructing data centers, modernizing telecommunications infrastructure, improving internet speed and reliability, and exporting artificial intelligence services. It was observed that the relatively high energy and operational costs for data centers in Japan and Europe might motivate companies to consider leveraging the infrastructure available in Uzbekistan.

During the visit, the Japanese delegation was acquainted with the operations of UZINFOCOM, a centralized integrator. Presentations were made regarding the organization’s current projects, and the delegation received insights into the main areas of activity and capabilities of UzSoc.

Ambassador Kenji Hirata highlighted the particular importance of the meeting in light of the upcoming C5+Japan Summit and praised the preparatory efforts undertaken by the Ministry to ensure the success of the forthcoming visit.

In his comments, the Ambassador remarked on the increasing interest of Japanese companies in Uzbekistan and indicated that, within the Embassy's framework, proposals would be put forward to facilitate the engagement of Japanese businesses in the country.

At the end of the meeting, both parties reiterated their willingness to enhance mutually advantageous collaboration in the fields of digital technologies, telecommunications, artificial intelligence, education, and innovation.