Uzbekistan is rapidly emerging as a leader in digital transformation and green energy development, leveraging strategic partnerships across the Middle East and Central Asia. This discussion with Sherzod Shermatov, Minister of Digital Technologies of the Republic of Uzbekistan, delves into the country’s efforts to integrate green economy initiatives with ICT advancements and artificial intelligence (AI).
The conversation took place during the Huawei ICT Competition Regional Finals Awards Ceremony in Riyadh, an event that brought together key industry stakeholders, government representatives, and technology leaders from across the region.
Marking the 10th anniversary of the Huawei ICT Academy in the Middle East and Central Asia, the event underscored the growing importance of digital skills and innovation in shaping the future of regional economies.
Shermatov shares insights into Uzbekistan’s approach to fostering talent, building a resilient ICT ecosystem, and strengthening its collaboration with key MENA players such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE, following recent agreements and in anticipation of Uzbekistan’s participation in the upcoming World Government Summit in Dubai.
- You recently announced major collaborations with Aqua Power and Masdar in the green economy sector. What is Uzbekistan’s broader strategy in this space, particularly in ICT and AI?
Sherzod Shermatov: Our aim is to position Uzbekistan as a leader in green energy generation, and we are grateful to have strong partners like ACWA Power from Saudi Arabia and Masdar from the UAE.
Uzbekistan is rapidly deploying green energy solutions, and we want renewables to hold the largest share of our energy mix. At the same time, we are developing net-zero data centres to capitalize on excess green energy. Instead of exporting raw energy, we aim to provide AI-powered data centres, catering to the global demand for computing power driven by AI start-ups.
- What’s next in terms of regional collaboration and workforce development?
Shermatov: We want to ensure that Uzbek talent is prepared for international remote jobs. Companies from Saudi Arabia and the UAE are already establishing offices in Uzbekistan, leveraging our affordable and skilled workforce. We see this as a win-win—businesses can reduce costs while expanding their operations, and Uzbek professionals gain valuable international experience.
- You recently signed an agreement with UAE’s Minister of State for Government Development and the Future. Are there similar plans for Saudi Arabia?
Shermatov: Yes, today we are meeting with the Saudi Minister of Communications to sign an MOU that strengthens our collaboration in digital technologies and ICT. This is an exciting step, as Saudi Arabia is an important partner in the region.
- Are there plans to establish a trilateral cooperation framework between Uzbekistan, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE in ESG and digital transformation?
Shermatov: We are currently developing bilateral partnerships with each country. With the UAE, we have already launched significant initiatives, such as the ‘1 Million Uzbek Coders’ programme and the President’s Tech Award, which evolved from the original M-Gov Award. We hope to continue expanding these collaborations.
- Do you see growing cooperation with other Middle Eastern countries beyond Saudi Arabia and the UAE?
Shermatov: Absolutely. We are seeing increasing collaboration across the MENA region, particularly in areas related to ESG and digital transformation.
Uzbekistan is positioning itself as a hub for green energy and digital innovation, leveraging regional partnerships to accelerate its development. With ongoing agreements and initiatives, the country is set to become a key player in the global digital economy.