Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation of the Republic of Uzbekistan

The forum was opened by the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovations of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Qo‘ng‘irotboy Sharipov, and the Deputy Chairman of the CIS Executive Committee, Ilhom Ne’matov. In their speeches, they emphasized that in today’s environment, innovation development requires stronger interstate cooperation and the integration of scientific potential with industrial capabilities.

Within the forum, a panel session titled “CIS Innovative Industry: A New Model of Intergovernmental Cooperation” was held with the participation of international experts. Speakers included the Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovations of Uzbekistan O‘ktam Salomov, Director General of the CIS Business Development Center Vadim Ganin, Chair of the World Peoples Assembly General Council and member of the Presidential Council for Interethnic Relations of the Russian Federation Svetlana Smirnova, Chairman of the Russian Business Clusters Association Sergey Mayorov, Deputy Director of the Azerbaijan Agency for Science and Higher Education Nijat Asadli, and Director of the Skolkovo Foundation Department Aleksandr Okunev.

The discussions focused on priority directions of industrial and innovation policy, mechanisms for sustainable cooperation, the development of technology transfer systems, and strengthening the innovation ecosystem. Particular attention was given to the prospects of introducing artificial intelligence in industry, accelerating digital transformation, and enhancing the integration of science, education, and production.

As a result of the forum, participants agreed to establish a joint working group aimed at strengthening scientific and technological ties among CIS countries, accelerating innovation development, and ensuring the practical implementation of science-industry integration. The group’s main task will be to ensure the rapid exchange of information on innovative projects, technologies, and best practices.

It was also agreed to develop a unified CIS innovation space and expand cooperation in artificial intelligence, digital technologies, and high-tech industries.

At the end of the forum, participants visited the exhibition pavilions of “Innoprom. Central Asia.” Covering around 18,000 square meters, the exhibition features cutting-edge technologies and innovative solutions. The national stand of Uzbekistan hosts around 400 leading companies, while delegations from 16 regions of the Russian Federation are actively participating in discussions aimed at strengthening investment and industrial cooperation.