Melbourne, June 11, 2025 — The landmark business forum “Business Diplomat Exchange Australia–Uzbekistan 2025” officially commenced with a high-level visit to the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry — one of Australia’s premier business institutions — located at 150 Collins Street, Melbourne.
This historic visit marked Day 1 of the forum and brought together a delegation of leading Uzbek entrepreneurs, part of the Business Diplomat Level IV program, led by Mr. Mirshod Shakirov, Founder of the Business Diplomat International Guild. It also marked the first-ever delegation from Uzbekistan to Australia focused on franchising and strategic international business diplomacy.
Deep Insights from Australia’s Business Leaders
The day’s agenda was thoughtfully designed to provide comprehensive insights into the Australian business and investment environment, with a strong focus on opportunities for collaboration in franchising. Key briefings included:
• Understanding the Australian Business Environment
Chris Barnes | Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry
• Victoria’s Business and Investment Landscape
Annie Jiang | Invest Victoria
• Victoria’s Future Economy
Amelia Bitsis & Alice Bailey | Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry
• Franchising Australian Brands in Central Asia
Doug Downer | The Franchise Guy
These sessions offered the delegation a robust overview of market trends, government support mechanisms, investment potential, and franchising models applicable to Central Asian markets.
A Milestone in Bilateral Exchange
The event was held in a roundtable format, encouraging open dialogue and practical discussion between the Uzbek delegation and representatives of the Victorian business community. The tone was one of partnership, curiosity, and shared ambition.
Victorian Chamber speakers expressed genuine interest in the emerging Uzbek market, highlighting opportunities to bring Australian franchise models into Central Asia, and recognizing the visit as a significant step in building stronger business bridges between the two nations.
“This is more than an exchange — it’s the beginning of an ongoing relationship rooted in real opportunity,” shared one Chamber representative.
Recognition and Appreciation
As a gesture of hospitality and acknowledgment, each delegate received:
• An official certificate of participation from the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry
• Commemorative gifts, presented by Mr. Brett Van Duppen, representative of the Victorian Chamber
These tokens underscored the Chamber’s commitment to welcoming international partners and fostering long-term collaboration.
The opening day concluded with an exclusive networking dinner hosted by the Chamber — an elegant setting that allowed for meaningful relationship-building in a more informal atmosphere.
Looking Ahead
The Business Diplomat Exchange Australia–Uzbekistan 2025 Forum continues with a series of business visits, presentations, and networking sessions in Melbourne and Sydney. Both sides have affirmed their intent to explore concrete partnership opportunities, including joint ventures, franchise expansions, and future exchange events.
The Business Diplomat International Guild extends its deepest gratitude to the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry for their professionalism, vision, and warm welcome — setting a high standard for international business diplomacy.
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