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

At the beginning of the meeting, Oktam Salomov highlighted the large-scale reforms implemented in Uzbekistan’s higher education and science sectors in recent years, as well as the steady development of the strategic partnership between Uzbekistan and China. It was noted that China is currently one of Uzbekistan’s largest trading partners and a major source of investment. Special attention is also being paid to cooperation with leading global universities under the “U10” initiative launched by the President of Uzbekistan.

Representatives of City University of Hong Kong provided detailed information about the university’s international reputation and its achievements in education and research. They noted that the university has been recognized as the world’s most international university for the past three consecutive years, maintains partnerships with more than 400 higher education and research institutions worldwide, and consistently ranks highly in international university rankings.

Innovation-related cooperation was another key topic of discussion. The parties exchanged views on the university’s “Tech 300” program, its experience in developing a startup ecosystem, engaging students in international internships, and integrating scientific research with practical applications. The Uzbek side invited university representatives and their startup teams to participate in the International Innovation Week held in Uzbekistan.

Following the meeting, the parties reached several important agreements aimed at elevating cooperation to a new level. These included exploring the possibility of opening a branch campus of City University of Hong Kong in Uzbekistan, launching joint academic programs and research projects, expanding academic exchanges between universities, preparing joint scientific publications, and establishing collaborative research centers.

The sides also discussed mutually beneficial proposals to attract talented Uzbek students to study in Hong Kong, support them through government-funded scholarships, and introduce international best practices into local higher education institutions.

The meeting marked an important step toward strengthening cooperation between Uzbekistan and China in education, science, and innovation, expanding the international integration of Uzbekistan’s higher education system, and creating new opportunities for young people.