In November 2024, Uzbekistan’s Minister of Digital Technologies, Sherzod Shermatov, and HCL Technologies’ Corporate Vice President, Shrimati Shivashankar, signed a Memorandum of Cooperation in the field of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT).
This move highlights Uzbekistan’s commitment to digitalization and strengthening ties with India, a recognized global IT leader. Asia Today explores how Delhi can support Tashkent in high-tech development.
The Role of Digitalization in Uzbekistan’s Economic Growth
At a digitalization-focused meeting, Minister Shermatov emphasized the key role of IT in Uzbekistan’s economic growth, particularly given the country’s landlocked geography.
Special attention was given to joint initiatives, such as Oracle certification programs, which provide professionals with internationally recognized qualifications.
These efforts contribute to the expansion of IT service exports, which are targeted to reach $5 billion by 2030.
Shrimati Shivashankar praised Uzbekistan’s achievements in ICT, highlighting the IT Park’s role in advancing the digital economy. She emphasized the importance of educational initiatives, including developing digital skills among schoolchildren and enhancing teacher training.
These programs aim to build a new digital workforce, which will serve as the foundation for Uzbekistan’s future economic success.
Strategic Goals: The ‘Uzbekistan 2030’ Program
Digital transformation is central to Uzbekistan’s ‘Uzbekistan 2030’ strategy. In 2023, IT Park residents exported $344 million in services, demonstrating steady growth.
The government is actively offering tax incentives and reforming regulations to attract foreign investors.
Partnerships with Indian companies, including HCL Technologies, strengthen this momentum by providing access to cutting-edge global technologies.
ICT Cooperation Beyond the Civil Sector
ICT collaboration extends beyond civilian industries.
In 2023, India’s Army Chief of Staff, General Manoj Pande, inaugurated an IT laboratory at Uzbekistan’s Armed Forces Academy. This project, funded by India’s Ministry of External Affairs, underscores the growing strategic importance of defense cooperation between the two nations.
Prospects for Joint IT Development
With expanding ties, new areas of cooperation are being explored:
- Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning: Joint innovations in AI.
- Outsourcing Services: Growth in BPO, LPO, and KPO to enhance service quality.
- Cloud Computing & Cybersecurity: Deployment of advanced data protection technologies.
- IT in Healthcare: Digital solutions for improving medical services.
- Blockchain & Internet of Things (IoT): Integration to boost efficiency.
These areas open new opportunities for both countries to build a competitive digital economy.
The Memorandum between Uzbekistan and India lays the foundation for deeper cooperation. In September 2024, another investment agreement was signed to develop IT infrastructure.
These initiatives support young professionals, drive innovation, and strengthen the global positions of both nations.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
January 10, 2025