Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 9 July 2025 a Public Hearing was held in Tashkent to present and discuss the Master Plan of the Center of Chemical Technology in Uzbekistan (UzCCT) - a flagship initiative jointly developed by the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), the Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), and “Uzkimyosanoat” JSC.

The event brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from the Government of Uzbekistan, academia, and industry leaders, to review and provide feedback on the strategic vision, technical framework, and implementation roadmap for the UzCCT. The Public Hearing marks a pivotal milestone in the realization of Uzbekistan’s long-term goals to modernize its chemical sector and foster high-value-added, eco-friendly production.

The Deputy Director of KOICA Office in Uzbekistan Ms. Park Seongmin emphasized that the UzCCT Master Plan is not just a project document, but a shared commitment to the future of Uzbekistan’s science and technology landscape. “By combining strategic insight, international cooperation, and innovation, this initiative will support the transformation of Uzbekistan’s chemical industry and build a strong R&D ecosystem,” she noted.

Representing KRICT, Dr. Youngmin Choi, Vice-President, highlighted Korea’s successful experience in building world-class chemical research institutions and the potential of applying proven methodologies in Uzbekistan. “KRICT is proud to contribute technical expertise and strategic direction to this Master Plan. We are confident this collaboration will position Uzbekistan as a leader in chemical research and technology within the CIS region,” he said.

Mr. Kurbanov A.D., Deputy Chairman of the Board of “Uzkimyosanoat” JSC, underlined the significance of the project in enhancing industrial competitiveness and sustainability. “The UzCCT will drive innovation, develop local talent, and introduce advanced, environmentally friendly technologies. This is a national priority and a shared success story in the making,” he stated.

The Master Plan outlines a holistic approach including institutional development, human capital investment, and research collaboration. The project is supported by KOICA and Korea’s Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF).

Key components of KOICA project, with a budget of 7.0 million US Dollars, feature full Scholarship program for Masters and Doctoral (PhD) Degree Programs in the field of chemistry at University of Science and Technology (UST), Korea, advanced training on research equipment, joint Uzbek-Korean R&D programs, development of Master plan for UzCCT operations, etc.

The Public Hearing served as a dynamic platform for gathering valuable stakeholder insights, ensuring the plan is both visionary and actionable. As the project moves forward, the synergy of Korean and Uzbek expertise promises to establish the UzCCT as a premier center for chemical science and innovation in the region.