The conference was organized by the Valdai Discussion Club and brought together more than 30 representatives from leading think tanks and government institutions in Russia, China, India, Mongolia, and Central Asia.
Discussions focused on cooperation between Russia and Central Asia in trade, transport connectivity, technology, and cultural exchange.
Speaking at the conference, IICA Deputy Director Sh. Fayziev noted that Central Asia is going through a period of major change marked by growing regional trust, stronger connectivity, and closer coordination among regional states.
According to him, open dialogue among Central Asian leaders is gradually shaping a “New Central Asia” based on shared interests and joint development.
Sh.Fayziev described the Tashkent Summit of the Consultative Meetings of Central Asian Heads of State as a historic milestone following Azerbaijan’s accession to the format as a full-fledged participant. This opens new opportunities for regional cooperation, transport connectivity, and stronger coordination across the region.
He also stressed that the Central Asia–Russia format remains particularly important given the deep historical, economic, infrastructural, and humanitarian ties between Russia and the countries of the region.
Participants highlighted strong potential for further cooperation in infrastructure development, technology, and regional production chains.
They also emphasized the growing importance of educational and cultural ties as a foundation for long-term cooperation and mutual trust.
In this context, participants discussed expanding academic exchanges, dual-degree programs, professional training initiatives, and strengthening the role of the Russian language in Central Asia’s educational space.
The Valdai Discussion Club is one of Russia’s leading expert platforms focused on global politics, economics, and international security. Its Central Asian conference has been held annually since 2020.
IICA regularly takes part in Valdai Club events, contributing to discussions on regional issues and cooperation within the Central Asia–Russia format.
