As part of EU Commissioner for International Partnership Josef Síkela's visit to Tashkent, the parties signed agreements on two strategic telecoms projects funded by the European Union. Both agreements are part of the European satellite Internet program in Central Asia, Eurasiatoday.ru reported. The plans also include the installation of ground satellite stations for digital communications in remote and sparsely populated areas of the country.
In the future, the EU is proposing to extend the project to neighboring countries and create a regional satellite gateway in Uzbekistan, which would provide connectivity to Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. The EU commissioner said the project would give Uzbekistan "real digital autonomy".
- The EU and Uzbekistan are working together to improve internet connectivity throughout the Central Asian region. European technology and Uzbek expertise can ensure that more people have access to fast and secure internet, helping businesses to grow, creating new jobs, and improving living conditions for local communities. By investing in digital connectivity, we are bridging gaps, creating opportunities, and ensuring that Central Asia is ready to take full advantage of the digital economy," said the EU Commissioner, according to the Commission's website.
The EU's Global Gateway strategy aims to bridge global investment gaps, promote sustainable connectivity in the digital, energy, and transport sectors, and strengthen education and research systems. The initiative aims to mobilize €300 billion in public and private investment between 2021 and 2027 to drive sustainable growth worldwide.