Uzbekistan and World Bank Discuss Expanding Cooperation in Digital Transformation

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Uzbekistan’s Minister of Digital Technologies, Sherzod Shermatov, held talks with a World Bank delegation led by Isabel Neto, Manager for Digital Initiatives in Europe and Central Asia.

During the meeting, the parties discussed accelerating Uzbekistan’s digital transformation, creating new jobs through the development of the digital economy, improving the quality of public services, and enhancing their accessibility for the population.

World Bank representatives highly praised the reforms underway in Uzbekistan’s digital sector, including the modernization of telecommunications, attracting investments to expand ICT infrastructure, and the development of IT education and professional training programs.

Special attention was given to deepening reforms in telecommunications, expanding data storage and cloud technology capabilities, and improving service delivery with the involvement of the private sector.

The discussion also covered prospects for joint work in cybersecurity, digital services, support for startups, and the broader innovation ecosystem.

The parties reviewed the implementation of the “Digital Inclusion in Uzbekistan” project, financed by the World Bank and executed by IT Park under the Ministry of Digital Technologies. This project aims to expand employment opportunities for thousands of young specialists, including people with disabilities, in digital skills and IT services across the country, including in remote and rural areas.

At the conclusion of the meeting, participants reaffirmed their readiness to further strengthen cooperation, continue practical engagement in priority areas, and support initiatives that promote the development of the digital economy, accelerate economic growth, and improve the well-being of the population.