BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 5. Uzbekistan presented
its digital transformation strategy at the St. Petersburg
International Economic Forum, highlighting measures aimed at
attracting foreign technology companies and advancing the
development of artificial intelligence, Trend reports, citing the ministry.
The country’s approach was outlined by Minister of Digital
Technologies Sherzod Shermatov during the international panel
session entitled “Digital Future: Common Development Vectors,
Challenges and Solutions,” which brought together ministers and
senior officials from Russia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Belarus,
Kyrgyzstan, Kuwait, and the International Telecommunication Union
(ITU).
The discussion focused on digital transformation, artificial
intelligence technologies, and prospects for regional cooperation
amid rapid technological change and the growing significance of the
digital economy.
In his remarks, Shermatov highlighted Uzbekistan’s efforts to
create a favorable environment for IT businesses through incentives
available to residents of the country’s IT Park. He noted that IT
Park companies are exempt from corporate income tax and invited
foreign technology firms to establish operations in Uzbekistan.
The minister also emphasized the country’s expanding talent pool
and its commitment to training specialists in accordance with the
requirements of international businesses.
According to Shermatov, only four companies with foreign capital
were registered in Uzbekistan’s IT Park in 2017, whereas today more
than 70 new foreign companies begin operations in the country each
month.
He stated that Uzbekistan’s strategic objective is to attract
international contracts and remote employment opportunities,
generate high-value jobs, and expand exports of digital
services.
Shermatov further underscored the importance of ensuring that
artificial intelligence contributes to higher incomes, improved
living standards, and enhanced economic efficiency. He noted that
Uzbekistan is investing in computing infrastructure, data
resources, workforce development, research, and startup support to
accelerate the adoption of AI technologies.
During the forum, participants also highlighted the growing role
of artificial intelligence solutions in public administration and
key sectors of the economy as a means of improving institutional
efficiency and strengthening the competitiveness of the digital
economy.
The panel session served as a platform for Uzbekistan to present
its experience in digital transformation and artificial
intelligence while expanding regional and international cooperation
in the technology sector.
