The international forum was held on October 30 at Uzbekistan’s Consulate General in Washington State, as the closing event of Seattle AI Week. Nearly 60 representatives of technology companies, universities, investment firms and government agencies attended, including participants from Harvard University, the University of Washington and Northeastern University, as well as the Seattle city administration.
The event was organized by the Consulate General, the American–Uzbekistan Business and Investment Council, IT Park Uzbekistan and the World Digital Technology Academy (WDTA).
At the end of the forum, the Consulate General and WDTA signed a memorandum of cooperation on technology and artificial intelligence. The document provides for closer ties between universities, businesses and government institutions, as well as exploring educational initiatives and pilot projects involving Uzbekistan. It also covers cybersecurity, data protection and the responsible use of AI.
Nozima Davletova, adviser to the head of the Presidential Administration and head of the secretariat of the American–Uzbekistan Business and Investment Council, presented the country’s priorities for digital development.
Ruslan Yapparov of IT Park Uzbekistan outlined opportunities to train young specialists, support startups and develop computing infrastructure.
Seattle Chief Technology Officer Shannon Smith shared the city’s experience in using artificial intelligence to improve public services, streamline construction procedures and enhance road safety. Participants also discussed prospects for exchanging expertise between Seattle and Tashkent in digital city management.
