BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 31. Uzbekistan’s
Central Bank and Ant Group discussed expanding cooperation in
digital financial services, cross-border payments and financial
technologies.
This was reflected in the statement by the Central Bank of
Uzbekistan, following the discussions within the Silk Road Finance
& Technology Forum 2026.
The discussions focused on opportunities to develop more
convenient and modern payment solutions for international
travelers, while also improving access to digital payment services
for Uzbek citizens traveling abroad.
The sides exchanged views on potential ways to facilitate
cross-border transactions and strengthen links between Uzbekistan’s
payment infrastructure and international financial technology
ecosystems.
"Particular attention was also given to the development of
Uzbekistan’s fintech ecosystem and strengthening the capacity of
professionals in the sector. In this context, the parties
considered collaboration opportunities under international
education and professional development initiatives for fintech
specialists, including the 10x1000 Tech for Inclusion programme,"
the statement said.
The initiative could help Uzbekistan expand its fintech talent
pool and accelerate the adoption of digital financial technologies
by providing local professionals with access to international
expertise and training opportunities.
The discussions come as Uzbekistan continues to develop its
digital financial infrastructure and promote wider use of
technology-driven financial services. Greater cooperation with
international fintech companies could support the expansion of
cross-border payments while helping local financial institutions
and technology companies adopt global practices.
The Central Bank and Ant Group expressed readiness to continue
dialogue and identify practical areas for cooperation in digital
finance, payment technologies and fintech development.
