Today, the Think Tank Forum “Central Asia – Russia: Strategic Partnership in a Changing World” was held at the International Institute for Central Asia (IICA).

The forum was organized by the International Institute for Central Asia and the Alexander Gorchakov Public Diplomacy Fund. The event brought together representatives of leading think tanks and research institutions from Central Asian countries and Russia, as well as experts, government officials, academics, and young researchers.

The forum was opened by Javlon Vakhabov, Director of IICA. He noted that in recent years, cooperation between the IICA and leading Russian analytical centers has significantly strengthened, promoting the exchange of experience, fostering expert dialogue, and expanding research collaboration. Mr. Vakhabov emphasized that Russia remains one of the key partners of the Central Asian countries in strategically important areas, including energy, transport, security, and innovation. According to him, holding such a forum creates a solid foundation for joint efforts to find solutions that meet modern challenges and serve the interests of the entire region.

The Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Uzbekistan, Alexey Yerkhov, also delivered a welcoming address. He noted:

“Russia remains a reliable partner of the Central Asian countries, consistently expanding cooperation in many areas – from energy and logistics to scientific, technical, and humanitarian spheres – while supporting projects aimed at strengthening regional stability and sustainable development”.

The forum program covered a wide range of issues – from energy and transport cooperation to interaction in the fields of security, digitalization, and innovation. Particular attention was paid to identifying practical solutions that enhance the resilience of national economies, strengthen interconnectivity, and adapt to new global challenges.

Following the forum, specific areas for deepening partnership were outlined, including the expansion of expert dialogue, the development of joint research projects, and the exchange of analytical materials.

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Aziza Alimova, photos by Oybek Pardayev, UzA