Tashkent, 18 December 2025 — A delegation of the ECO Science Foundation (ECOSF) held a productive meeting with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan to discuss strengthening regional cooperation in science, technology, and innovation (STI) within the framework of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO).

The meeting was held with Mr. Shokirjon Rakhmatov, Head of the Department of Cooperation with Regional Organizations, Mr. Jasur Rajabov, and Mr. Dilrukh Temiraliyev, officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan also participated in the meeting.

During the discussions, Mr. Rakhmatov underlined that the Republic of Uzbekistan considers Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) as key building blocks of economic development and is making concerted efforts to advance these sectors. He emphasized Uzbekistan’s strong commitment to regional cooperation within the ECO framework and expressed readiness to collaborate closely with ECOSF to achieve shared regional objectives.

Prof. Dr. Seyed Komail Tayebi, President ECOSF introduced the Foundation and highlighted its mandate in promoting regional scientific cooperation and joint STI programmes among ECO Member States. He emphasized ECOSF’s role as a regional platform for strengthening collaboration among scientific institutions and research communities.

Dr. Ghulam Muhammad Memon, Executive Director ECOSF, underscored that the ratification of the ECOSF Charter and its Additional Protocol would be instrumental in unlocking the full potential of cooperation and further amplifying Uzbekistan’s role and visibility in regional scientific collaboration.

Mr. Khalil Raza, Programme Manager – Energy & Climate, ECOSF also briefed the participants on key ongoing and planned programmes of the Foundation, highlighting opportunities for Uzbekistan’s enhanced engagement in ECOSF-led regional initiatives.

The meeting concluded with mutual interest in deepening cooperation and advancing regional collaboration in science, technology, and innovation for sustainable development across the ECO region. Additionally, Mr. Shokirjon Rakhmatov stated that his ministry will monitor Uzbekistan’s ratification of the ECOSF.