Uzbekistan, which has been one of the important centers of the Silk Road throughout history, serves as a natural bridge between Asia and Europe today. This geostrategic location makes Uzbekistan a regional hub not only in terms of trade and logistics but also in terms of technology and investment flows. Digitalization has become a decisive factor in the transformation of today’s economies. In this context, technology forums play a significant role not only for sharing information and experience but also for developing global partnerships.

Considered one of the world’s most prestigious technology conferences, Web Summit has maintained this success for a long time. In 2025, the event is planned to be held for the first time in Central Asia on September 27 in Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, which is considered a significant milestone in the region’s integration into the international technology ecosystem.

Web Summit, which first began in Ireland in 2009, has evolved into a global technology conference based in Lisbon, hosting over 70,000 attendees annually. This event brings together entrepreneurs, technology companies, government representatives, investors, and media organizations, facilitating discussions on a wide range of current topics in the fields of investment, innovation, and digital transformation across many different platforms.

Uzbekistan has recently achieved remarkable momentum in digital matters and technology. The growth the government has achieved in the field of information technology is one of the most important reasons behind its hosting this event. As of 2023, the country’s information technology outsourcing revenue exceeded $300 million, doubling for four consecutive years. The target for 2030 is for this revenue to reach $5 billion and for 300,000 people to be employed in the sector. The Ministry of Digital Technologies and IT Park Uzbekistan, which hosted the event, play a significant role in the development of the country’s technology ecosystem.

By the end of 2023, the IT Park was home to 1,652 resident companies, with nearly half of those firms deciding to establish themselves in the country that year. With tax incentives and infrastructure support attracting foreign investors, Uzbekistan has become a regional hub. Web Summit Spotlight Uzbekistan is expected to not only serve economic purposes but also strengthen regional partnerships.^[i]

Uzbekistan’s President Shavkat Mirziyoyev frequently emphasizes the central role of the state in development goals during the digital transformation phase. Mirziyoyev made a statement on the matter, saying, “An environment is being created where young people can transform their talents into globally competitive projects.” The aim of the event is also to address many different important themes related to the future of technology.

The transformative and disruptive role of artificial intelligence is expected to bring extended reality applications and new market strategies for creative industries to the forefront. Another important aspect of the event is the opportunities it is expected to offer to Uzbekistan’s young population. The demographic structure of the country is in a favorable position for young people to take on more effective roles in technological fields. Thanks to Web Summit Spotlight, young entrepreneurs, investors, and global technology experts will be able to connect directly with each other and gain an international perspective. In addition, it is aimed that female investors and entrepreneurs will also participate in this organization, making a significant contribution to increasing the representation of women in the technology field.^[ii]

Another significant aspect of Web Summit Spotlight Uzbekistan is its role in the country’s cultural promotion and soft power strategy. The forum to be held in Tashkent will not only allow Uzbekistan’s technological advancements but also its cultural values to be introduced to the international public. Increased visibility thru global media is expected to boost Uzbekistan’s tourism potential and strengthen the country’s cultural diplomacy.

Uzbekistan is attracting attention not only for its geographical location but also for its rapidly growing technology sector and government-supported digitalization goals. In addition to being a meeting point for entrepreneurs and investors, the organization is expected to serve as an important catalyst contributing to the long-term development of the region. The entrepreneurial ecosystem that Uzbekistan possesses will be introduced to more international capital and expertise on this occasion, and young entrepreneurs are expected to gain the opportunity to open up to global markets. Ultimately, Web Summit Spotlight is not just a technology forum; it is also a strategic milestone that will place Uzbekistan on the global innovation map. Thru this event, Central Asia will rapidly advance toward becoming an equal part of the global digital dialog.

^[i] “O’zbekiston Markaziy Osiyoda ilk bor veb-sammitga mezbonlik qiladi”, The Times of Central Asia, https://timesca.com/uzbekistan-to-host-first-ever-web-summit-spotlight-in-central-asia/, (Date Accessed: 21.09.2025).

^[ii] “For the first time in Central Asia: Web Summit Spotlight to be held in Tashkent”, Kursiv Media, https://uz.kursiv.media/en/2025-09-17/for-the-first-time-in-central-asia-web-summit-spotlight-to-be-held-in-tashkent/, (Date Accessed: 21.09.2025).