M360 Eurasia AI moves to Samarkand this week as industry and policy leaders examine how artificial intelligence, connected infrastructure and regional digitalisation can drive long-term economic growth across Eurasia. The event returns to Uzbekistan for a second consecutive year between May 20-21, bringing together more than 1,000 operators, policymakers and technology players.
The M360 Eurasia AI conference will address AI, digital public infrastructure, satellite connectivity, cybersecurity and regulation. GSMA chief regulatory officer John Giusti noted that Samarkand, historically a Silk Road crossroads, represents the region’s commitment to reconnecting Europe, Asia and the Middle East through technology.
Scale and Implementation Take Center Stage
Sherzod Shermatov, Minister of Digital Technologies of the Republic of Uzbekistan, explained that M360 Eurasia AI reflects broader policy objectives. Last year’s event in Tashkent attracted 413 companies spanning 60 countries. “This year, we expect that number to grow even further,” Shermatov stated, citing increasing international interest in Central Asia’s digital economy.
The conversation in 2026 moves from exploration to execution, with greater focus on how AI integrates tangibly into national digital strategies, secure networks and public services. Shermatov emphasised the shift: “AI is no longer a future concept; it has become a matter of real implementation. The key shift is from discussing technology itself to discussing results—where AI is actually working and what impact it brings.”
Moving From Pilots to Scaled Operations
A second critical transition involves scaling solutions beyond isolated pilots. Shermatov noted, “The real question is how to integrate AI into core operations and make it part of everyday business processes.” For host sponsor Veon, this emphasis on measurable AI impact aligns with developments across its regional operations.
Kaan Terzioglu, group CEO of Veon, highlighted the operator’s integration of what it terms augmented intelligence across customer-facing services and operational systems. He stated, “Operators and governments are now focused on how AI can be embedded at scale—in networks, customer experience, cybersecurity and public and private-sector service delivery—in ways that are practical, measurable and sustainable.”
Demographics and Infrastructure as Growth Drivers
Uzbekistan’s young population and rapid digital adoption represent significant opportunities for growth. Terzioglu noted, “Markets such as Uzbekistan have young, growing populations that are adopting digital services rapidly, from mobile entertainment and fintech to enterprise solutions.” However, he added that the challenge will be ensuring infrastructure, skills and regulation keep pace with demand.
Digital Uzbekistan 2030 Strategy
The event comes as Uzbekistan accelerates efforts under its Digital Uzbekistan 2030 strategy to position itself as a regional technology and connectivity hub. Shermatov previously stated that digital transformation is not limited to the capital: “We are intentionally expanding infrastructure, services, and opportunities across the entire country.”
