IT Park Uzbekistan and East Telecom Discuss Cooperation in Artificial Intelligence Infrastructure

The Ministry of Digital Technologies of Uzbekistan reported that Uzbekistan and Pakistan discussed expanding cooperation in the fields of digital technologies, artificial intelligence, IT service exports, startups, and investments.

The discussions took place during a meeting between the Minister of Digital Technologies of Uzbekistan, Sherzod Shermatov, and the State Minister of Pakistan, Bilal Bin Sakib. One of the key issues of the negotiations was Pakistan's potential role in the digital economy, with a special focus on the effective utilization of the country's human capital, including IT specialists, freelancers, and technology companies.

Representatives from both countries examined prospects for joint work in the areas of artificial intelligence and data centers. Furthermore, the sides separately considered projects in green energy, including initiatives related to the development of digital infrastructure.

The importance of developing freelancer potential was emphasized. The parties noted the need to transition from a model where specialists primarily act as service providers to creating conditions for them to launch their own startups, digital products, and companies.

In this regard, Uzbekistan and Pakistan discussed harmonizing startup ecosystems in both countries, stimulating interaction between venture funds and technology entrepreneurs, and creating joint digital products. Promising areas identified included technological solutions for agriculture, medicine, and education that could be presented in the international markets of both nations.

Particular attention was paid to attracting Pakistani IT companies to Uzbekistan. The sides considered the possibility of creating operational conditions for such companies in the country and promoting Uzbekistan as a platform for entering the Central Asian and CIS markets.

Representatives also discussed opportunities under the 'Zero Risk' program, which aims to attract IT companies, including to regions of Uzbekistan. Under this program, companies can be provided with office space for a certain period, necessary equipment, employee training, reimbursement of costs for obtaining certain international IT certifications, and tax incentives.

Expanding mutual export of IT services was another area of negotiation. The sides stressed the importance of creating conditions for Pakistani specialists to participate in projects in Uzbekistan, exchange experience with local specialists, and jointly enter third-country markets.

After the negotiations, the Pakistani delegation visited the IT Park of Uzbekistan, where representatives of the organization spoke about support for foreign and domestic technology companies, the development of the IT industry, the increase in IT service exports, and the formation of a startup ecosystem.

During the visit, the delegation toured UZINFOCOM, where guests were shown the company's experience in implementing large digital projects, digitizing public services, as well as developing and implementing modern information systems and digital platforms. Additionally, Uzbek representatives presented information on the implementation of digital technologies in public administration and the provision of public services, integration of information systems, and the development of digital infrastructure.