As part of the Tashkent International Investment Forum (TIIF), an international panel session titled “AI, Digital Governance and Innovation: The Next Investment Frontier” was held, focusing on the role of artificial intelligence, digital governance, and innovation in economic development and investment attraction. The event brought together representatives of government institutions, international organizations, and leading technology companies.

The discussion centered on the impact of artificial intelligence on the transformation of public services, increasing economic efficiency, and creating new opportunities for investors. Participants also explored the development of digital ecosystems, innovation support mechanisms, and models of cooperation between the public and private sectors.

Among the speakers were Benedict Macon-Cooney, Director of AI and Innovation at the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change; Takehiko Matsuo, Deputy Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry of Japan; as well as representatives from Uzum, Wildberries Uzbekistan, DataVolt, UZCARD, TAV Technologies, and other international organizations. Approximately 100–150 guests attended the session.

IT Park Uzbekistan was represented by Makhliyo Muksinova, Director of Strategic Development. During her speech, she highlighted the development of Uzbekistan’s artificial intelligence and startup ecosystem, emphasizing that the country views AI not only as a technological priority but also as one of the key drivers of economic growth and investment attraction. Particular attention was given to the goals of the AI Strategy 2030, talent development in the field of AI, the expansion of computing infrastructure, and initiatives aimed at attracting technology investments.
"We are building an ecosystem where the development of artificial intelligence is supported at every level — from talent development and scientific research to startup creation and the implementation of AI solutions across various sectors of the economy," said Makhliyo Muksinova.

The session also highlighted the achievements of Uzbekistan’s startup ecosystem. According to the StartupBlink Global Startup Ecosystem Index 2026, Uzbekistan ranked first globally in startup ecosystem growth and was recognized as the “Country of the Year.” Startup investment volume increased from $69 million in 2024 to more than $308 million in 2025, while the number of registered startups surpassed 1,000.

The panel session served as a platform for exchanging international experience in artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and innovation. For IT Park Uzbekistan, participation in such events creates additional opportunities to promote the country as a regional technology hub, strengthen international partnerships, and attract new investors and technology companies to the Uzbek market.
2026-06-18