Uzbekistan and the Chinese Ant Group discussed prospects for cooperation in artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure, and modern technologies. The negotiations took place in Shanghai as part of the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC).

The meeting was held by the Minister of Digital Technologies of Uzbekistan, Sherzod Shermatov, with an Ant Group delegation led by Harry Hsien, Director of Innovation and Solutions for International Business.

Representatives of the Chinese company spoke about the development of their own AI technologies, including solutions for the financial sector, healthcare, e-commerce, digital identification, cloud services, and protection against deepfakes. Ant Group emphasized that they view artificial intelligence as a tool to enhance human capabilities, not to replace specialists.

The Uzbek side presented plans for the development of a national AI ecosystem, increasing computing power, and creating modern data processing centers. Sherzod Shermatov highlighted the country's advantages, including affordable electricity costs, renewable energy potential, and conditions for hosting large digital facilities.

The Minister proposed that Ant Group consider participating in the creation of artificial intelligence infrastructure in Uzbekistan, as well as using Tashkent as a platform for the company's regional office.

Ant Group representatives expressed their readiness to explore prospects for expanding their activities in the region. Cooperation may include the implementation of AI solutions, the development of data centers, and the creation of new digital services for various sectors of the economy.