The Uzbek side briefed the EBRD delegation on development of information and communication technologies in Uzbekistan. Representatives of the Uzbek ministry proposed on priority areas of cooperation with the EBRD, including on increasing speed of access to international networks, development of broadband access and fiber-optic networks.

The EBRD delegation received information about newly created Mirzo Ulugbek Innovation Center. The Uzbek side offered cooperation on attracting investments and know-how to create an ecosystem of venture capital and support IT start-ups within this center.

The EBRD provided information on resumption of cooperation between the bank and the Republic of Uzbekistan after the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding with the Government of Uzbekistan in March. The EBRD will focus on supporting private entrepreneurship, small and medium-sized businesses. In terms of infrastructure projects, the EBRD began work on developing projects in the areas of utilities, transport, energy, there is interest in cooperation in the field of ICT.

It was agreed to continue consultations at the level of experts to work out and agree on mutually acceptable and mutually beneficial forms of investment cooperation.

The meeting was attended by the head of the EBRD Office in Uzbekistan Alkis Drakinos of Greece.