TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, February 5. Uzbekistan
and the World Bank have reviewed ways to accelerate the country’s
digital transformation, Trend reports via the country's Ministry of Digital
Technologies.
The issue was addressed during talks between Minister of Digital
Technologies Sherzod Shermatov and a World Bank delegation led by
Isabel Neto, Digital Practice Manager for Europe and Central Asia
(ECA).
The discussions focused on fostering job creation through the
advancement of the digital economy and enhancing both the quality
and accessibility of public services.
A key focus was placed on driving reforms in telecommunications
and communications infrastructure, expanding data hosting and cloud
capabilities, and modernizing service delivery models, particularly
through the active participation of the private sector.
Furthermore, the parties explored avenues for deepening
collaboration in cybersecurity, the development of digital public
services, and the enhancement of skills essential for bolstering
Uzbekistan’s startup and innovation ecosystem. They also examined
the potential for implementing joint initiatives aimed at advancing
these goals.
The World Bank has been collaborating with Uzbekistan since
1992, with the partnership witnessing substantial growth since 2017
in alignment with the country’s ambitious reform agenda. This
collaboration spans key sectors, including agriculture, education,
infrastructure, and digitalization.
At present, the total value of Uzbekistan’s portfolio of joint
projects with the World Bank exceeds $14 billion, reflecting the
depth and breadth of their ongoing cooperation.
