Tashkent: Azerbaijani journalists have visited IT Park Uzbekistan as part of a media tour, APA's correspondent dispatched to Uzbekistan reports. During the visit, media representatives were informed about the activities, history of establishment, and objectives of IT Park Uzbekistan, as well as projects implemented to develop the digital economy in Uzbekistan.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Nodir Alibekov, Head of the Digital Economy Development Department at the Ministry of Digital Technologies of Uzbekistan, highlighted that the initiative to create a separate space for IT Park was put forward by Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. The President emphasized the necessity for a dedicated space for initiatives in the IT sector, where such projects could receive adequate support.

Alibekov noted that currently, over 1,100 foreign companies are registered and operating in Uzbekistan, contributing to the country's exports. On average, 7-10 new IT companies from various countries establish operations in Uzbekistan every month. The IT Park ecosystem hosts companies from the United States, European nations, Georgia, Kazakhstan, China, South Korea, and Japan.

During the presentation to the journalists, it was revealed that Uzbekistan is home to more than 110,000 ICT specialists and 145 IT universities. The state policy focuses on training personnel in the IT sector, developing startups, and attracting foreign investment. The total value of Uzbekistan's startup ecosystem is estimated at over USD 4.3 billion, with more than 1,600 startups operating in the country. Additionally, the venture ecosystem includes 22 funds with total capital exceeding USD 200 million.