GSMA Announces M360 Eurasia 2026 to Be Held in Samarkand

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The GSMA has announced that the M360 Eurasia 2026 forum will be held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, for the first time, from 20 to 21 May 2026.

The event will mark the second joint M360 Eurasia initiative organized by the GSMA, Beeline Uzbekistan (a subsidiary of VEON), and the Ministry of Digital Technologies of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

M360 Eurasia 2026 will bring together government representatives, industry leaders, and technology innovators to discuss the development of a connected digital future for the region. The program will feature high-level discussions, interactive sessions, and dedicated networking events. Key topics will include the advancement of mobile connectivity, AI-driven transformation, cross-border cooperation, and the role of digital infrastructure in fostering sustainable economic growth.

GSMA CEO John Hoffman said that hosting M360 Eurasia 2026 in Samarkand reflects the organization’s commitment to supporting digital transformation and interregional cooperation across Eurasia. He noted that Samarkand’s unique position as both a historic and modern bridge between continents makes it an ideal venue for the forum.

Uzbekistan’s Minister of Digital Technologies Sherzod Shermatov emphasized that it is a great honor for the country to welcome the global mobile ecosystem to Samarkand, a city that has long connected cultures and trade routes across Eurasia. He stressed that the forum aligns with Uzbekistan’s commitment to building a modern digital economy under the “Digital Uzbekistan – 2030” strategy.

VEON Group CEO and Chairman of Beeline Uzbekistan Kaan Terzioglu highlighted that Central Asia is rapidly emerging as a key hub for AI-driven digital development. According to him, the 2026 forum in Samarkand will showcase the region’s potential and expand cooperation with global and regional leaders in the digital industry.

M360 Eurasia 2026 is expected to serve as a platform for promoting innovation and investment while strengthening connectivity across the Eurasian digital ecosystem.