On the second day of the IV Tashkent International Investment Forum (TIIF), a panel session took place on the topic “International Dispute Resolution in Uzbekistan: Tashkent International Commercial Court”. The session focused on introducing the concept of this new, independent institution for resolving international commercial disputes and its potential role in enhancing Uzbekistan’s investment climate. In addition, IT Park Uzbekistan representatives held meetings with companies from Oman.
International Dispute Resolution in Uzbekistan: Tashkent International Commercial Court
The session brought together both international and local experts, including Herta Däubler-Gmelin, Member of the Advisory Board of Global Neighbours (Germany); Nasser bin Mohsen Al-Adba, Managing Partner of Omani & Partners (UAE); Jon Zaidi, CEO of ACWA Power in Uzbekistan (Saudi Arabia); Islambek Rustambekov, Rector of the Tashkent State University of Law; Diana Bayzakova, Director of the Tashkent International Arbitration Center; and Jamshid Urunov, Deputy Commissioner for Protection of Rights and Legitimate Interests of Entrepreneurs under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan. The session was moderated by Marie-Anne Birken (United Kingdom), Enterprise Uzbekistan’s consultant on the establishment of the Tashkent International Commercial Court.
Particular emphasis was placed on the fact that the establishment of the Tashkent International Commercial Court is explicitly provided for in the Law on the International Digital Technology Center. This initiative is seen as a pivotal step towards building a modern legal infrastructure aligned with international standards, enabling Enterprise Uzbekistan to position the country as a promising global IT hub with an open and transparent judicial system.
During the discussion, experts highlighted the significance of the TICC for foreign investors, the importance of procedural transparency, judicial independence, and the enforcement mechanisms for court decisions. The participants emphasized the need for online accessibility of court processes, pre-trial dispute resolution options, proceedings in English, and international recognition of the court’s rulings — all critical elements for fostering trust among foreign partners and investors.
Herta Däubler-Gmelin noted that the creation of the TICC responds to the real needs of the business community and will succeed if it earns the trust of the international community. Nasser bin Mohsen Al-Adba emphasized the professionalism of the judges and the use of English as key factors for enhancing the confidence of foreign companies. Ultimately, the experts unanimously recognized the TICC as an essential instrument for strengthening the rule of law and ensuring investment stability in Uzbekistan.
Strengthening Cooperation with Oman: Focus on Supporting SMEs and Startups
As part of TIIF, a meeting was held at the Ministry of Digital Technologies with the participation of Kaleem Mohamed Saleem, CEO of Harweel Integrated, member of the Banking and Finance Committee of the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI), and member of the Oman-Saudi Business Council. The Uzbek delegation was represented by Olimjon Umarov, First Deputy Minister of Digital Technologies, and Elyor Maksudov, Startup and Investment Development Director of IT Park Uzbekistan.
The meeting focused on Uzbekistan’s investment potential in the digital technology sector, reforms in the IT industry, the rapidly growing startup ecosystem, and opportunities for attracting foreign partners. Mr. Saleem expressed particular interest in investing in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and emphasized the prospects of collaboration in innovative sectors.
The discussions resulted in agreements to establish a joint working group, launch a collaborative acceleration program to support early-stage startups, and promote cooperation between startups from both countries.
The parties also agreed to support Omani startups in entering the Uzbek market and assist Uzbek startups in expanding into the Omani market. These initiatives aim to strengthen startup ecosystems and support SME development.
High C-Level Digital Connect: Advancing Collaboration
A key highlight on the second day was the High C-Level Digital Connect side event, organized by the Ministry of Digital Technologies, IT Park Uzbekistan, and DataVolt. The event brought together government representatives, industry leaders, and innovators shaping Uzbekistan’s digital future.
The participants included Olimjon Umarov, First Deputy Minister of Digital Technologies; Abdulakhad Kuchkarov, CEO of IT Park Uzbekistan; Mukhammad Khalil, CEO of Startup Garage; Elena Onyakova, Business Development Manager for Data Centers at Legrand; Ahsen Saeed, Vice President for Finance in Central Asia at ACWA Power; Hussain J. Al Nowais, Chairman of the Board of Directors of AMEA Power; and Bekzod Sanalulov, Sales Representative of Zeppelin Power Systems CAT.
The meeting served as a platform for exchanging experience, discussing new opportunities in the ICT sector, and strengthening international partnerships, contributing to Uzbekistan’s integration into the global digital landscape.
Uzbekistan once again demonstrated its commitment to the principles of the rule of law, transparency, and international collaboration. The discussions on the establishment of the TICC and the reinforcing of partnerships with Omani companies reaffirm Uzbekistan’s strategic focus on fostering a favorable business environment and integrating into global investment and legal systems.
