The American-Uzbekistan Chamber of Commerce

1225 I Street, NW, Suite 500
Washington, DC 20005 USA
(202) 682-4718
(202)789-1056
aucc@erols.com

The Primary goal of the American-Uzbekistan Chamber of Commerce ("AUCC") is to promote trade and investment between the United States of America and the Republic of Uzbekistan. In doing this, AUCC places primary emphasis on addressing the needs of its membership in both countries.

AUCC works closely with the Embassy of the Republic of Uzbekistan in Washington, D.C., Uzbek Government officials from the Ministry for Foreign Economic Affairs, various representatives from the U.S. Department of State, U.S. Department of Commerce, and the U.S. embassy in Tashkent, as well as non-governmental organizations to organize conferences, workshops, panel sessions, and other opportunities for the U.S. and Uzbek business communities to promote their mutual commercial interests. AUCC also works closely with other councils and chambers involved in Central Asia as well as other regions of the Newly Independent States to collect, analyze, and quickly disseminate information to its members so that they are kept apprised of changing developments.

AUCC is a 501(c)(6) non-prof it organization funded by companies interested in promoting the growth and improvement of bilateral trade and investment between the United States and the Republic of Uzbekistan. The Board of Directors consists of representatives from U.S. corporations who are elected by the Board for one-year terms.

AUCC provides its corporate membership with the latest information on political, economic, legal, and commercial developments in Uzbekistan via facsimile and e-mail bulletins. In addition, AUCC publishes the AUCC Business Digest, a bimonthly publication that focuses on political and economic developments, legislative updates, as well as commercial and joint venture opportunities. The Digest also features a "Corporate Corner" which enables AUCC member to network with other members by sharing their business experiences in Uzbekistan. Each publication focuses on useful contacts in key industries and government agencies, while emphasizing new trade and investment opportunities in Uzbekistan.

The idea for AUCC came about through the efforts of a small working group during the summer of 1993, consisting of NUKEM, Inc., (a major supplier to the global nuclear fuel market), White & Case (an international law firm), and Navoi Mining & Metallurgical Combine. The level of interest in the idea quickly grew, and by September 1993 AUCC was formally established by over a dozen founding members. From its inception, AUCC has consistently received support and encouragement from the Embassy of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

The historic first general meeting of AUCC in Uzbekistan was held in Tashkent in October 1994 at the invitation of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Islom Karimov. Deputy Prime Minister Utkur Sultanov and AUCC president Nicholas M. Nikazmerad co-chaired the general business session which was attended by over ninety highlevel government and business leaders from both countries.

AUCC's history has been characterized by continued growth in its membership and the level of its activities. In 1994, AUCC organized a series of general membership meetings involving participation of high-level government officials and business persons from Uzbekistan. Contacts established by AUCC contributed to the early signing of the Bilateral Trade Agreement between the U.S. and Uzbekistan.

AUCC has also sponsored numerous receptions and dinners coinciding with events in U.S.Uzbekistan relations. In 1996, AUCC worked to bring about the historic meeting between Presidents Clinton and Karimov. President Nicholas M. Nikazmerad hosted a dinner in honor of President Karimov with an award on behalf of AUCC.

President -- Larry Kurlander Newmont Mining Company Secretary/General Counsel Carolyn B. Lamm, Whie and Case Kenneth J. Allen Dresser Industries, Inc. Felix Calonder Caterpillar Overseas, S.A. Dr. Dudley B. Christie ICG, Inc.

Brendan Harrington Cargill Nicholas M. Nikazmerad NUKEM, Inc. John Stead Dunavant Enterprises, Inc. Bengt Westergren American International Group