As part of the development of digital transformation and strengthening international technological cooperation, Uzbekistan is implementing the Uzbekistan Connect program, aimed at actively involving successful specialists of Uzbek origin working in international IT companies and startups. The program is aimed at strengthening the country's position in the global digital economy, developing export potential in the field of IT services, and creating conditions for attracting foreign investment and competencies.
One of the key initiatives of the project is the Uzbekistan Connect Ambassador platform, which aims to develop international partnerships, promote investment opportunities in Uzbekistan, support young professionals, create export-oriented interaction models and strengthen the country's reputation as a technologically mature and open state.
Within the framework of the program, the Minister of Digital Technologies of Uzbekistan Sherzod Shermatov met with Uzbekistan Connect ambassadors — specialists working in leading technology centers of the world. The meeting was attended by 12 representatives from Germany, Japan, the Republic of Korea, the United Kingdom, Poland, the United Arab Emirates and the United States. They include engineers, analysts, product managers, and entrepreneurs representing both multinational corporations and promising startups.
During the dialogue, key areas of the Digital Uzbekistan 2030 strategy, the current state of the country's IT ecosystem, support for startups and personnel policy in the field of technology were discussed. Special attention was paid to expanding remote employment opportunities, as well as attracting IT companies to regions with undisclosed economic potential.
The Minister stressed the importance of using international experience to unlock the potential of remote areas of Uzbekistan, develop local infrastructure, create high-paying jobs and create an environment for intellectual capital. It is noted that the formation of a sustainable ecosystem requires synergy of education, technology and entrepreneurship, where the contribution of foreign compatriots becomes particularly important.
The program's ambassadors presented their proposals for participation in joint projects, including initiatives in the field of digital transformation, cross-border interaction, consulting and mentoring for young professionals. They also discussed the integration of Uzbek IT personnel into the global labor market and mechanisms for knowledge exchange.
The Uzbekistan Connect program is becoming an important platform for strengthening ties between Uzbekistan and its global professional diaspora, contributing not only to technological development, but also to positioning the country as an active participant in the international IT community.