Dr. Ebtesam Al-Ketbi is the first Arab woman to lead a think tank in the Arab world, having founded and presided over the Emirates Policy Center (EPC), a leading research institution focused on regional security, geopolitical dynamics, and policy analysis.

The discussion focused on strengthening expert dialogue and developing joint initiatives in key areas such as regional security, sustainable development, trade, investment, climate change, and connectivity.

Dr. Al-Ketbi commended the efforts of Central Asian countries to enhance regional cooperation and highlighted the value of academic exchange in shaping forward-looking strategies in response to evolving global dynamics.

Both representatives expressed a shared interest in continuing the dialogue and identifying practical avenues for collaboration in the near future.

Founded in 2013 and based in Abu Dhabi, the Emirates Policy Center is one of the Arab world’s leading think tanks. It focuses on strategic analysis and policymaking on issues relevant to the Gulf region and the broader Middle East.