The Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS) at the University of World Economy and Diplomacy hosts the Think Road Forum 2025, bringing together leading policymakers, diplomats, scholars, experts, and international organizations to explore how Central Asia can advance sustainable and inclusive development amid major geopolitical and economic transformations.

Held under the theme “Rethinking Sustainable Development in Central Asia in the Age of Emerging Regionalism”, the Forum reaffirmed its role as a global platform for evidence-based dialogue on the region’s long-term priorities.

The conference opened with a high-level plenary chaired by Dr. Akram Umarov and featured keynote remarks by H.E. Sodyq Safoev, H.E. Javlon Vakhabov, and Prof. Jennifer Brick Murtazashvili, who highlighted how new geopolitical realities, integration formats, climate challenges, and technological shifts are reshaping Central Asia’s development agenda. Throughout the discussions, participants emphasized the need for smarter regional cooperation, stronger institutions, responsible energy transition policies, and diversified connectivity routes that support stable and inclusive growth.

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Over two days, experts examine how Central Asian states can navigate competing geopolitical interests, expand economic corridors, accelerate renewables, address climate vulnerabilities, and manage shared water resources more effectively. Social aspects of sustainable development also featured prominently: education, youth policy, gender equality, social protection, and the role of communities in ensuring that economic growth benefits all segments of society. The second day includes the launch of Prof. Adham Khudaykulov’s new book, “The Transition Trap”, which provides a timely reflection on the region’s three decades of transformation and its implications for future policy choices. Discussions further explored how artificial intelligence, digital connectivity, and multi-stakeholder partnerships between governments, development institutions, the private sector, and universities can shape a more human-centered digital future for Central Asia.

By convening influential voices from across sectors and regions, Think Road Forum 2025 aims to generate concrete ideas, policy recommendations, and new partnerships that will help Central Asian countries navigate emerging regionalism with greater resilience. The Forum once again demonstrated IAIS’s mission of linking academic research with practical policymaking and ensuring that regional needs and global trends inform both Uzbekistan’s policy decisions and the Institute’s research agenda.

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Musulmon Ziyo, video by Doniyor Yoqubov, photo by Nosirjon Haydarov, UzA