Growing international trust in Uzbekistan is translating into large-scale scientific cooperation. A conference dedicated to the integration of domestic science into the Horizon Europe program, the European Union's flagship initiative to support research and innovation, was held at Tashkent State Technical University, Uza.uz reports.
The event, organized with the support of the European Commission and the EU Delegation to Uzbekistan, brought together over 100 leading scientists, university rectors, industry experts, and policymakers.
The main objective of the meeting was to present the work programs for 2026–2027. Participants discussed:
- Priority funding areas: from climate technologies to digital transformation.
- Thematic clusters: opportunities for forming international consortia.
- Participation mechanisms: step-by-step instructions for applying for EU grants.
EU representatives particularly emphasized the inclusiveness of the program. Researchers from Uzbekistan have the right not only to participate in projects on an equal basis with their European colleagues but also to receive direct funding for their research.
"Participation in Horizon Europe is not just access to grants; it is a strategic path to integrating Uzbekistan into the European research space," noted the organizers.
The conference presented the experience of already implemented projects, confirming the high competitiveness of Uzbek scientists in the international arena. Increased participation in such consortia will significantly enhance the innovative potential of the national economy.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
February 13, 2026