NEW YORK CITY -- American Councils for International Education received presidential praise at the recent US-Uzbekistan Business Forum.
During his keynote address, Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev noted his desire for collaboration between American Councils, the Uzbek Ministry of Higher Education, and the Uzbek Chamber of Commerce and Industry. President Mirziyoyev said he looked forward to the growth of internship programs, student and faculty exchanges, Uzbek language study, business training, and higher education management.
The Forum was the first opportunity for American Councils representatives to interact with the Uzbek president, who was elected last year, explained Executive Vice President David Patton.
"We were thrilled that President Mirziyoyev announced his support of partnering with American Councils on a host of educational initiatives," Dr. Patton said. "We look forward to renewing our collaboration with Uzbek partners and continuing a legacy of educational impact."
Dr. Patton and several senior staff members from American Councils joined dozens of high-level business people and government officials at the annual forum, which this year coincided with the UN General Assembly.
Lorne Craner, President of American Councils, was one of the featured speakers in a round table discussion on how education, consumer power, and tourism increase economic wealth and social well-being.
The American Councils delegation also met with President Emomali Rahmon, of Tajikistan, and President Almazbek Atambayev, of Kyrgyzstan, opening the door for future cooperation.