Uzbekistan and UK Drive Forward Tashkent International Financial Center and LSE Post-IPO Strategies

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On the sidelines of the fifth Tashkent International Investment Forum (TMIF-2026), important intergovernmental negotiations were held aimed at strengthening the Uzbek-British financial and economic partnership.

Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Uzbekistan Jamshid Khodjayev conducted a productive meeting with the UK Minister for Investment, Lord Jason Stockwood, during which the parties outlined new vectors of practical interaction in high finance, institutional development, and global investment.

The United Kingdom traditionally serves as one of Uzbekistan's key strategic partners, providing significant expert and practical support in forming a transparent financial market, attracting long-term capital, and integrating advanced investment instruments. A solid foundation for deepening integration was established by the Declaration on Comprehensive Partnership, signed between the two nations in 2024. Today, 248 enterprises created with the participation of British capital successfully operate in the real sector of Uzbekistan's economy, and this indicator demonstrates stable growth.

The focus of the agency heads was directed toward a block of issues related to the integration of Uzbekistan into international investment platforms. Particular emphasis was placed on the outcomes and subsequent steps following the initial public offering (IPO) of the National Investment Fund (NIF) of Uzbekistan on the London Stock Exchange (LSE). Jamshid Khodjayev characterized this historic step as a powerful positive signal to the global investment community, confirming the republic's commitment to maximum transparency, decentralization, and an active presence in global financial markets.

In parallel, the parties discussed in detail the roadmap for launching the Tashkent International Financial Center (TIFC) and establishing an independent, specialized international financial and commercial court. This court will operate based on the principles of English law to ensure the reliable protection of foreign investors' rights.

The agenda also included the development of flagship industrial projects within the framework of implementing Uzbekistan's updated industrial strategy. Following the dialogue, an official agreement was finalized to transition to substantive operational work at the level of relevant expert groups from both countries.