Assalomu aleykum, dear participants!

As we speak, at the UN’s Summit for the Future in NY, the world leaders adopted a Pact for the Future. It has the Global Digital Compact as annex and a dedicated section for Science, technology and innovation and digital cooperation. Particularly Action 31 reads, “We will ensure that science, technology and innovation improve gender equality and the lives of all women and girls.”

Against this background, it is a privilege to stand before you today at the International Forum on Digital Economy, a gathering dedicated to advancing women’s entrepreneurship through the power of digital innovation.

On behalf of UNDP, I would like to extend my appreciation to the Government of Uzbekistan for their commitment to advancing women’s entrepreneurship and digital inclusion. 

We at UNDP deeply value our partnership with the Government of Uzbekistan.

Together with the Ministry of Economy and Finance, we established an IT and Business Development Services Center in Shakhrisabz, benefiting over 100 young learners.

We also trained representatives of SMEs on digital business transformation and marketing, while piloting digital solutions at 24 private training centers across eight regions. 

In support of Uzbekistan’s startup ecosystem, we organize mentorship programs, startup accelerations, and pioneered the first-ever School for Business Angels. Through these efforts, we are committed to promoting innovation and inclusivity in Uzbekistan’s growing digital economy.

We have arrived at a crucial moment in history. Never before we have the tools of technology held such vast potential to accelerate development, uplift communities, and address inequality. 

Yet, as we embrace the digital revolution, we must also recognize that access to these tools is not equal. The digital gender divide threatens to leave millions of women and girls behind, particularly in rural and underserved regions. 

This forum is a timely call to action—a chance for us to come together and craft practical solutions to ensure that women, in all their diversity, can seize the opportunities of the digital age.

Ladies and gentlemen,

Research shows us clearly: investing in women yields extraordinary returns. Educated girls grow into empowered women who are healthier, more economically active, and equipped to contribute to the well-being of their communities. 

But education must now extend beyond the classroom. It must encompass the digital skills and financial literacy required to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving global marketplace. Ensuring equitable access to digital tools can transform not just individual lives but entire economies.

But beyond the technologies themselves, what is most important is collaboration – the whole of society approach. Governments, the private sector, civil society, and international organizations all have a critical role to play. 

Together, we can unlock the potential of women entrepreneurs, providing them with not only the tools they need but also the networks and support systems that are so essential to long-term success. 

Dear Colleagues,

Let us also not forget the critical importance of engaging young women and girls in these conversations. They are the future, and it is our responsibility to ensure they have the skills, opportunities, and confidence to be at the forefront of the digital economy. 

In conclusion, let us remember that the outcomes we seek—gender equality, economic empowerment, and sustainable development—will not be achieved by chance. They require deliberate action, thoughtful investment, and unwavering commitment. 

UNDP stands ready to support Uzbekistan in this journey, and I am confident that together we will continue to break down barriers, create new opportunities, and build a future where women’s full participation in the digital economy is the norm, not the exception.

Thank you once again for your participation, and I look forward to the rich discussions and partnerships that will emerge from this forum.

Rakhmat (Uzbek: thank you) !