Uzbek Delegation Holds Talks with IT Companies and Diaspora in Washington

Uzbekistan’s Minister of Digital Technologies, Sherzod Shermatov, along with CEO of IT Park Uzbekistan, Azamat Karamatov, conducted a series of meetings in Washington with representatives from international companies, startups, and the Uzbek diaspora. The discussions centered on enhancing the IT ecosystem, attracting investments, and increasing exports of digital services.

Particular emphasis was placed on workforce development and the enhancement of technological skills.

Diaspora and Startups: Expanding Cooperation

In meetings with diaspora representatives and startup founders, participants explored methods to introduce international expertise and projects into Uzbekistan. They examined opportunities for initiating joint ventures, expanding outsourcing, and providing support to local enterprises.

Over 20 representatives from various international organizations and companies participated in the discussions, including Factour, Gourmet Concept Inc., World Turon Association, DOMiNO Ventures, The George Washington University, Harvard University, Georgetown University, Amazon Web Services (AWS), Oracle, World Bank Group, World Wildlife Fund (WWF), Mount Sinai Hospital, and Balloon Stoll, among others.

A significant focus was directed towards talent development. The discussions included educational programs, internships, and online training with the involvement of international experts. Various cooperation formats were suggested to engage the diaspora in the advancement of the country’s IT ecosystem.

Among the initiatives introduced was the Bonus System, which aims to involve technology experts as consultants to attract export-oriented international companies, accompanied by a reward mechanism.

Another initiative, Uzbekistan Connect, seeks to establish a network of tech ambassadors to showcase Uzbekistan’s potential in AI, outsourcing, venture investment, and the startup ecosystem.

Participants also deliberated on the involvement of students studying abroad in international IT events to broaden professional networks and enhance Uzbekistan’s visibility on global platforms.

Ericsson: Developing Telecom Infrastructure

Discussions with Ericsson, featuring Vice President for Government Relations Jeffrey Marks, concentrated on the advancement of telecommunications infrastructure and the implementation of next-generation technologies. Key areas of focus included improving network resilience and broadening internet coverage.

The parties also engaged in discussions regarding the ongoing telecommunications reforms in Uzbekistan, emphasizing the expansion of broadband access, the integration of advanced technologies, and the enhancement of network infrastructure.

They shared insights on significant global trends, such as smart cities, Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystems, and the application of artificial intelligence in network management — all of which are in line with Uzbekistan’s digital transformation strategy.

The conversation also included the development of data centers, particularly “green” infrastructure initiatives aimed at bolstering the country’s status as a center for international data and IT services.

IBM: Enhancing Technological Capacity and Skills

In a meeting with IBM, which included Vice President Emily Fontaine, the parties discussed improving Uzbekistan’s investment climate and broadening opportunities for both local and international partnerships.

They also examined the implementation of modern “green” data centers being established throughout the country, along with the existing incentives and advantages in this sector.

Collaboration in artificial intelligence, cloud solutions, and other cutting-edge technologies was addressed, with hybrid cloud and quantum technologies recognized as priority focus areas.

Particular emphasis was placed on the establishment of innovation labs, the initiation of educational programs, and specialist certification. The potential for hosting IBM infrastructure in new data centers and partially relocating projects from other regions was also explored.

The Uzbek representatives underscored the country’s demographic potential, investments in IT education, and the increasing number of multilingual professionals. Opportunities for data center development, including in Karakalpakstan, were also highlighted.

Netsweeper: Internet Safety Solutions

Conversations with Netsweeper centered on internet safety and content management solutions, with a strong focus on user protection, particularly in educational settings.

The discussions addressed strategies to enhance online safety in Uzbekistan, including measures to shield children and young people from harmful content.

Specifically, participants deliberated on the gradual implementation of content filtering systems for schools and higher education institutions, AI-driven content classification, and the early detection of harmful information flows.

GK Consultation: Office Launch and Business Expansion in Uzbekistan

Discussions with Grigory Mirzoev, the founder and CEO of GK Consultation, centered on initiating operations in Uzbekistan and enhancing collaboration in business services and transport technologies. Key points of focus included establishing an office in the Jizzakh region and launching activities under the Zero Risk program.

During the meeting, the parties reviewed the company's strategy for entering the Uzbek market, which encompasses the development of consulting and SaaS solutions in transport technologies. It was highlighted that in the first year of operation, the company aims to create approximately 50 jobs and achieve service exports of up to $500,000.

The conversation also addressed the formation of a local team by incorporating Uzbek specialists and commencing operational activities. Representatives from IT Park Uzbekistan and the Ministry of Digital Technologies expressed their willingness to assist with recruitment and project development.

ALIF UZ CORP: Business Expansion and New Office in Samarkand

ALIF UZ CORP is set to broaden its footprint in Uzbekistan, as revealed after a meeting with the company's founder, Jamshiddin Fazliddinov. Major plans include the establishment of a new office in Samarkand and an expansion of the team.

During the discussions, the parties explored the enhancement of logistics services, which encompass freight transportation, dispatch services, and fleet management. This expansion is anticipated to create up to 250 jobs and boost service exports by $3 million.

Particular emphasis was placed on the advancement of accounting and financial services with a view to entering international markets. The dialogue also included training specialists, initiating educational programs, and offering training that aligns with international standards, such as CPA certification.

CIPE: Cooperation for Startup Development and Investment Attraction

A meeting with the Center for International Private Enterprise (CIPE) concentrated on fostering the startup ecosystem and expanding into international markets.

The parties reached an agreement to enhance collaboration within the B5+1 platform, emphasizing the IT sector, e-commerce, and innovation. Discussions included attracting venture capital from the United States and providing support for Uzbek startups.

Infrastructure development was also a topic of discussion, encompassing projects related to artificial intelligence and data management.

Furthermore, the involvement of IT Park Uzbekistan as a coordinator for the IT sector within the B5+1 initiative was addressed, along with the planning of the Uzbekistan Digital Roadshow in San Francisco, supported by CIPE.

Outcomes and Future Prospects

After the meetings, the involved parties consented to maintain discussions and advance towards more comprehensive project development. International firms showed interest in initiating infrastructure and educational projects in Uzbekistan.

These agreements are anticipated to result in the establishment of new offices and development centers, the enhancement of data center infrastructure, and increased collaboration in artificial intelligence and cloud technologies.

In the long run, these initiatives are expected to bolster Uzbekistan’s status as a regional IT hub and enhance digital service exports.