TASHKENT, June 18. /Dunyo IA/. Gian Piero Cigna, Head of the Financial Law Unit at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), who is participating in the 5^th Tashkent International Investment Forum in the capital of Uzbekistan, granted an exclusive interview to a Dunyo IA correspondent.

- Uzbekistan today demonstrates its openness to investment. We are observing vital structural reforms that create favourable conditions for business and economic growth. As an example, one can point to the energy sector, where a series of significant transformations have been implemented. These changes have received a positive assessment from international organizations, including the OECD. Opportunities for investors are expanding, and interest in the country continues to grow.

Tashkent International Investment Forum has become a reflection of these processes. It allows for a view of Central Asia through the eyes of investors and demonstrates the growing attractiveness of the region. For a long time, Central Asia remained insufficiently open to international business; however, today the situation is changing. The forum annually attracts more participants and investors who consider Uzbekistan a promising destination for investment. The country's strategic position in the very heart of Central Asia also plays a vital role.

People hold a particular significance. One can perceive the ambition, energy, and commitment to development here. It is precisely these qualities that investors notice first and value highly.

European Bank for Reconstruction and Development has always maintained a presence in Uzbekistan. However, successful cooperation requires the state's openness, readiness to attract investment, and a willingness to discuss and implement structural reforms. In the past, this was quite challenging, but today the situation has fundamentally changed. We witness large-scale reforms and positive shifts across numerous sectors. Granted, the transformation process is not yet complete and a long journey still lies ahead, yet the current developmental trajectory deserves a highly positive appraisal.

Particular attention within the framework of the forum is dedicated to the future of corporate governance. Issues that are just beginning to shape the new agenda and are not yet reflected in textbooks are being discussed. In particular, this concerns the core sectors of the economy and the growing role of energy. Today, the energy sector is becoming one of the key drivers of economic development, and its significance continues to rise, including in the context of the development of artificial intelligence.

New global realities were also discussed. The world is facing geopolitical disruptions and constant challenges that exert an impact on corporate operations. Under these conditions, it is crucial not only to react to changes but also to transform emerging difficulties into new opportunities for development.

A distinct block of the discussion was dedicated to artificial intelligence. The general consensus is that artificial intelligence represents an important and useful tool; however, it must serve people. Technologies will continue to evolve, yet the pivotal role will remain with humanity.