Space Technology Conference (STC 2026) – Central Asia

The International Astronautical Federation (IAF) proudly participated in the Space Technology Conference (STC 2026) – Central Asia, held from 30 March to 1 April 2026 in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. The event brought together regional and international space leaders to discuss innovation, economic development, and international collaboration in space activities across Central Eurasia.

On behalf of the IAF, Executive Director Christian Feichtinger delivered a keynote address during the session “Shaping the Future of Space in Central Eurasia: Insights from the Region’s Space Leaders”. In his remarks, he highlighted the Federation’s 75-year legacy of fostering international cooperation in space, emphasizing the importance of knowledge-sharing, innovation, and global partnerships in shaping the future of the sector.

“The IAF brings together over 600 member organizations from 82 countries, with a growing representation from Central Asia. This region is not only participating in the global space sector - it is emerging as a driving force within it,” said Christian Feichtinger.

The session featured distinguished leaders shaping Central Eurasia’s space ambitions, including Dunay Badirkhanov, Acting Chair of Azercosmos, Yusuf Kıraç, President of the Turkish Space Agency, and Shukhrat Kadirov, Director of Uzcosmos, which has been selected to host the 79th International Astronautical Congress (IAC 2028) in Samarkand.

As part of the visit, IAF Executive Director Christian Feichtinger held a productive meeting with H.E. Mr. Sherzod Shermatov, Minister of Digital Technologies of the Republic of Uzbekistan. The discussion focused on Uzbekistan’s growing role in the global space sector and explored collaborative initiatives leading up to the IAC 2028 in Samarkand.

The IAF looks forward to continuing its collaboration with Uzbekistan and the Central Asian space community, supporting innovation, fostering regional engagement, and preparing for a successful IAC 2028 in Samarkand.