The comprehensive development of multifaceted mutually beneficial cooperation between our countries and enhancing ties in the diplomatic, trade, economic, investment, scientific, technical, cultural, and humanitarian spheres have gained a rapid character, especially with the participation of representatives of business circles.

Foreign investors play an important role in attracting investments to the economy of Uzbekistan, implementing practical, innovative projects and joint programs, supporting comprehensive reforms and democratic transformations in the country, and global and regional initiatives promoted by Uzbekistan.

Considering this, the President of Uzbekistan, on the occasion of the 32nd Anniversary of Independence, awarded a group of foreign investors with the “Dustlik” (Friendship) Order. Among them is Mr. Seifi Ghasemi, Chairman, President and CEO of Air Products of the United States of America.

In a conversation, Mr. Seifi Ghasemi expressed his opinion on the positive impact of international awards on his future activities and the business environment and conditions created for foreign investors.

– By the Decree of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, you were awarded the “Dustlik” Order. First of all, please accept our congratulations. This high title is awarded only to a few heads of foreign companies operating in our country. Would you please share your first feelings and impressions?

– I am very honored to represent the more than 23,000 employees of Air Products around the globe in receiving the “Dustlik” Order bestowed by the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

– How important are international awards for you? How will this affect your future activities?

– Recognitions such as the “Dustlik” Order reflect a shared commitment to work together and amplify the enormous potential of the energy sector of the Republic of Uzbekistan. At Air Products, our higher purpose as a company is to bring people together to collaborate and innovate solutions to pressing energy and environmental challenges in our world.

– How do you assess the transformations taking place today in Uzbekistan? In particular, what do you think about the business environment and conditions created for foreign investors?

We are excited about the country, most recently demonstrated by our announced investment agreement with the Republic of Uzbekistan and Uzbekneftegaz JSC (UNG) to acquire, own, and operate a natural gas-to-syngas processing facility in Qashqadaryo Province, Uzbekistan for US$1 billion.

Uzbekistan is growing rapidly, and the government is reform-minded and has made significant progress to improve its business environment. We see it as a high-growth environment underpinned by strong government support, and we are ready to bring our best-in-class operational and supply competencies to bear.

– Would you please tell us about the goals of Air Products in the United States of America, including cooperation with Uzbekistan, major investment projects being implemented, and documents signed?

– Air Products is committed to sustainability and supportive of the communities it operates in, leveraging innovative processes to solve energy and environmental challenges. We help to develop natural reserves through collaboration, advanced technology, and application expertise, and we are excited about the opportunities to do this in Uzbekistan. 

In acquiring, owning, and operating two large-scale air separation units, two large-scale auto-thermal reforming units, and a hydrogen production unit within the Uzbekistan GTL complex and supplying oxygen, nitrogen, hydrogen, and syngas, UNG will be able to seamlessly produce low-cost, high-purity fuels that enable the Republic to meet its growing energy production and societal needs. 

– What other opportunities should be provided to domestic and foreign business people in Uzbekistan?

– With a stable, open, and transparent business environment, we can build on our exciting GTL agreement and long-term, sustainable partnership with future opportunities in Uzbekistan and Central Asia. We see the country’s growth potential and look forward to broader opportunities.

– Thanks for your reply!

Air Products is a world-leading industrial gas company operating for over 80 years focused on serving energy, environmental, and emerging markets. The Company has two growth pillars driven by sustainability. Air Products’ base business provides essential industrial gases, related equipment, and application expertise to customers in dozens of industries, including refining, chemicals, metals, electronics, manufacturing, and food. 

In 2019, Air Products launched its operations in Central Asia. The company has a representative office in Uzbekistan and a central office in Tashkent.

Interviewed by Bekhruz Khudoyberdiev, UzA