South Korea and Uzbekistan Launch AI and Tech Partnerships

The Government of South Korea and several Central Asian nations, including Uzbekistan, established the Korea-Central Asia Initiative for Future Cooperation in Artificial Intelligence, Science and Technology. Formed during a ministerial meeting in South Korea, the initiative creates a framework for joint research projects, educational programs, and the design of technological solutions focused on the responsible application of AI.

During the proceedings, Sherzod Shermatov, Uzbekistan's Minister of Digital Technologies, presented the country's Artificial Intelligence Development Strategy through 2030. The participants sought to deepen ties with South Korean universities and AI companies to expand digital capabilities across the region.

Parallel to these diplomatic efforts, the Fergana regional administration of Uzbekistan and the Korea Venture Business Association (KOVA) agreed to expand cooperation in venture capital and information technology. Fergana Regional Governor Khayrullo Bozorov and KOVA Vice President Kang Ji-hoo met in Seoul to discuss strengthening Fergana's technology ecosystem. This partnership aims to help youth-led startups in the Fergana region attract investment and integrate into the South Korean startup ecosystem by leveraging KOVA's network of over 40,000 high-tech companies.