Web Summit, one of the world's biggest tech conferences, took place in Qatar, marking their first venture into the Middle East, and was completely sold out. More than 15,000 people attended the event, where startups, VCs, incubators, and tech enthusiasts gathered for one week in Doha, including a delegation of around 50 people from Uzbekistan. Uzbekistan's deputy minister of Digital Technologies, Rustam Karimjonov joined that delegation. In an interview with Daryo’s correspondent at the summit, he outlined a vision for deepening ties between Uzbekistan and Qatar and how they can collectively leverage digital technologies for economic growth and societal advancement.
Strengthening Qatar-Uzbekistan Relations
The Deputy Minister highlighted the flourishing relationship between Uzbekistan and Qatar, attributing it to the warm and welcoming nature of both countries. "The ties are very good these days," Karimjonov noted, mentioning ease of engagement with major companies and government agencies in Qatar. Last year the leaders of both nations meet a number of times throughout the year, and the visa process for citizens of both countries were eased. Another indication of improved relations, Karimjonov also mentioned that the ease of communication and shared cultural values have laid a solid foundation for future collaborations. "It's very easy when you tell them [you're from] Uzbekistan, all say ‘a friend country.’"
Startups at Web Summit: Uzbekistan's Digital Talents on Display
Karimjonov proudly pointed out that Uzbekistan brought close to 50 participants and 10 startups to the summit. One of these startups, IMAN made it to the PITCH finals, standing out as one of the top 3 in the international pitching competition. A number of the Uzbek startups that attended the event are currently in the process of opening offices in Qatar as well. He discussed the country's focus on leveraging its young, digitally skilled population to offer outsourcing opportunities, emphasizing, "So they use our talent, it's good for us and good for Qatar because they don't have human resources, enough human resources for those ambitious plans there."
Empowering Women and Girls in Tech
Addressing gender disparities in the tech sector, Karimjonov shared initiatives to involve more women in ICT, emphasizing the need for more success stories among girls. The biggest barrier Karimjonov acknowledged is that their families’ mindsets still need to change, and the value of work in the IT sector needs to be taught. "Attracting girls in the IT sector is also one of the priorities of Uzbekistan," he stated. Acknowledging the societal stereotypes and challenges he also highlighted the opportunities: "You stay home, raise your kids and earn money, help your family if you are digitally skilled.” This would be another avenue for women in Uzbekistan to become financially independent and balance work with cultural expectations.
Overcoming Infrastructure Challenges
One of Uzbekistan’s biggest barriers to developing its IT sector is its unstable electrical supply. Karimjonov also touched upon infrastructural issues such as this, particularly the need for stable electricity and internet access to support the IT sector's growth beyond the capital city. He explained the significance of this for outsourcing companies, saying, "for outsourcing companies especially, stable energy resources are very important. It's crucial.” He added that work is underway on improving the nation's electrical grid and boosting internet accessbility.
Vision for the Future
The Deputy Minister expressed optimism about the potential for growth in the ICT sector through international collaboration and investment in IT education. He envisioned Uzbekistan leveraging its strategic position and digital talents to become a key player in the global IT landscape.
The dialogue between Uzbekistan and Qatar opens new pathways for cooperation, promising to bring significant investments, knowledge exchange, and technological advancements to both nations. With plans for a "Qatar Days" event in Uzbekistan and ongoing discussions for future collaboration, the stage is set for a deepening partnership that harnesses the power of digital innovation for economic and social progress.
By: Tawney Kruger
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