Connecting Innovation Ecosystems: Uzbekistan and Hong Kong Move Closer

Uzbekistan’s ambition to become a leading technology gateway between Central Asia and global markets gained fresh momentum this week as a delegation from Hong Kong, led by Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu, visited Tashkent. The visit concluded with the signing of strategic agreements between IT Park Uzbekistan, IT Park Ventures, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), and a bilateral agreement between IT Park Uzbekistan and Hong Kong Cyberport Management Company Limited, laying the groundwork for deeper cooperation in innovation, venture investment, and cross-border business development. 

Hosted by the Ministry of Digital Technologies and IT Park Uzbekistan, the visit reflected a broader ambition: to connect Central Asia’s rapidly growing digital economy with one of Asia’s most established financial and innovation centers. 

During the meetings, officials presented Uzbekistan’s expanding technology ecosystem, highlighting the country’s efforts to attract international technology companies, venture capital, and startups. The discussions focused not only on investment opportunities but also on the infrastructure needed to support long-term growth — from talent development and entrepreneurship to international market expansion. 

A roundtable chaired by Ayubkhon Sultonov, First Deputy Minister of Digital Technologies for Digitalization, brought together representatives from the Hong Kong delegation, the Ministry of Digital Technologies, IT Park Uzbekistan, and other stakeholders to explore new avenues for cooperation in digital transformation, innovation, and economic development. 

Beyond the agreements already signed, the parties also discussed expanding cooperation with other leading innovation institutions in Hong Kong, including the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) and the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Innovation and Technology Park. The initiative is aimed at building long-term partnerships and creating stronger links between the innovation ecosystems of Uzbekistan and Hong Kong. 

For Uzbekistan, which has invested heavily in developing its digital economy and strengthening international technology partnerships, the visit underscored a broader strategic objective: positioning the country as a bridge between Central Asia and global innovation markets while creating new opportunities for entrepreneurs, investors, and technology companies on both sides.