SANTA FE, N.M. – Along with colleagues from the Republic Uzbekistan, New Mexico Tech President Stephen G. Wells accepted an award from Sister Cities International at a ceremony July 7, 2022, at the Governor’s Residence. President Wells accepted the award in recognition of Tech’s partnership with Uzbekistan. 

“This award recognizes the joint efforts we have made to further peace, understanding, and scientific and technological endeavors,” President Wells said. “To that end, we are currently establishing a formal relationship with the University of Geological Sciences, an institution that provides cutting-edge geological education in Uzbekistan. We are very excited about this relationship and the opportunities it will provide.”

President Wells said Sister Cities International is known for promoting peace, one individual, one community at a time. 

“We’re very proud to be a part of that important effort vis-a-vis collaboration and knowledge sharing that not only builds relationships but can also lead to shared innovation and entrepreneurial endeavors.”

Uzbekistan Ambassador Javlon Vakhabov, who accepted the award on behalf of his country, first visited New Mexico Tech on July 6, 2021. He toured many areas that day, including the Petroleum Research and Recovery Center and EMRTC – the Energetic Materials Research and Testing Center. Ambassador Vakhabov spoke about his country’s plan to focus on improvements to the mining industry, updates to the agricultural industry, and on innovative technologies in education, chemical engineering, and health care.

President Wells said that day began the start of a partnership with Uzbek universities and agencies that paved the way for future collaborations in academics, research, and student exchanges.

“It provides us with an opportunity to build lasting relationships to strengthen education around the world,” he said. “Thank you for the opportunity to be here today to celebrate our international partnership and to inspire others to promote peace and understanding among nations.”