Delegation Visit to Germany: Strengthening Women's Entrepreneurship Through German-Uzbek Cooperation

Organized by German Sparkassenstiftung for International Cooperation and MKBANK

In early June 2025, a high-level delegation from Uzbekistan, led by Deputy Prime Minister and Chairwoman of the Committee on Family and Women, Mrs. Zulaiho Mahkamova, visited Germany as part of a joint initiative organized by the German Sparkassenstiftung for International Cooperation (DSIK) in collaboration with MKBANK. The visit aimed to strengthen German-Uzbek cooperation in the field of women's entrepreneurship, financial literacy and sustainable development.

The delegation program included participation in the international conference "Empowering Women Entrepreneurs: New Horizons of Uzbek-German Dialogue," hosted by the Empbassy of the Republic of Uzbekistan and attended by representatives from German official and business circles, leaders of German women-led enterprises, international experts, foundations, universities, and a delegation of Uzbek women entrepreneurs.

Mr. Matthias Fohs, Head of Devision for Europe and Central Asia of DSIK, highlighted in his address that this initiative marked a significant milestone in creating a platform for dialogue between women entrepreneurs from both countries. He emphasized the importance of cross-border exchange of knowledge, expertise, and innovation to build stronger partnerships and inclusive economic development.

During the panel discussions, inspiring success stories of Uzbek women entrepreneurs were shared, showcasing their resilience and achievements in building impactful businesses and creating jobs. The event also featured the official opening of the “Sanat Forum für Kunst, Kultur und Wissenschaft e.V.”, founded by a fellow Uzbek living in Germany.

Furthering the practical outcomes of the visit, the delegation visited "Mittelbrandenburgische Sparkasse" in Potsdam. They met in this interesting meeting with Mr. Robert Heiduck, Deputy Chair for Public Affairs, and exchanged insights on programs supporting women and youth entrepreneurship, mentoring services, and inclusive finance.

The visit concluded with the signing of a trilateral Memorandum of Understanding at the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Berlin between the Committee on Family and Women of Uzbekistan, DSIK, and MKBANK. This memorandum aims to deepen cooperation in promoting financial literacy among women, supporting startup initiatives, and sharing international best practices.

This successful visit reinforced the commitment of German Sparkassenstiftung for International Cooperation to advancing inclusive finance and entrepreneurship in Uzbekistan. DSIK looks forward to continued collaboration and impactful projects for sustainable economic growth and social development.