Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Uzbekistan’s Minister of Digital Technologies, Sherzod Shermatov, met with European Commissioner for International Cooperation, Jozef Sikela, to discuss prospects for collaboration in digital technologies and telecommunications.

During the meeting, Jozef Sikela praised Uzbekistan’s dynamic progress across various sectors, highlighting the country’s digital transformation efforts, which have contributed to improving the population’s quality of life.

Minister Sherzod Shermatov outlined the ministry’s key objectives and the opportunities created to enhance digital development. He also emphasized that due to Uzbekistan’s landlocked status, the government is actively investing in information and communication technologies (ICT) to drive the rapid growth of IT service exports.

The importance of expanding cooperation with European countries was underscored, given the specifics of the European market.

Discussions also covered telecommunications cooperation, including a joint project to provide internet access to remote regions using modern satellite systems.

A particular focus was placed on enhancing digital connectivity, strengthening digital resilience, and advancing the digitization and telecommunications sectors.

The meeting also addressed projects under the European initiative "Digital Connectivity for Central Asia", aimed at improving digital infrastructure and integration across the region.

At the conclusion of the meeting, both parties expressed gratitude and optimism for the successful implementation of joint projects.

Key Initiatives Discussed:

"Connectivity for Central Asia" (C4CA) – A project to enhance digital infrastructure and regional integration, fostering stronger ties, cooperation, and economic exchange among Central Asian countries.

"Satellite Connectivity for Remote Areas of Central Asia" – Aimed at providing internet access to remote and hard-to-reach regions, supporting education, healthcare, and economic development in areas with limited or no internet connectivity.

These initiatives are expected to broaden digital opportunities for rural and remote populations, contributing to Uzbekistan’s sustainable technological advancement.