On March 4, 2026, VEON Ltd. (Nasdaq: VEON) and Rakuten Group, Inc. disclosed a partnership between Beeline Uzbekistan, VEON’s digital operator in Uzbekistan, and Rakuten Symphony, a Rakuten Group subsidiary. This collaboration, as outlined in a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), aims to enhance Uzbekistan's burgeoning digital economy. Key focus areas include Open RAN development, AI-backed network intelligence, and advanced digital platforms. The agreement marks a significant step towards fostering strategic ties in the digital sector, leveraging the expertise of both entities to support Uzbekistan's technological growth.