As part of the programme, IICA specialists took part in the 2nd “Central Asia – Republic of Korea” Think Tank Forum, co-hosted by the Secretariat of the Korea–Central Asia Cooperation Forum and the National Institute for Strategic Initiatives under the President of the Kyrgyz Republic. The forum provided a platform to exchange analytical insights on current regional cooperation agendas and establish new partnerships within the “Central Asia+” format.

During their time in Bishkek, the delegation visited the Embassy of the Republic of Uzbekistan in the Kyrgyz Republic. Particular attention was given to the Embassy’s information and analytical functions, including the monitoring of bilateral relations, policy brief development, and support for diplomatic initiatives.

Another key engagement included a meeting with Mr. Antonio Guterres Grasso, UN Resident Coordinator in Kyrgyzstan. Discussions addressed the advancement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the contribution of think tanks to long-term development strategies, and prospects for collaboration with UN institutions across Central Asia.

The programme also featured expert consultations with representatives of the National Institute for Strategic Initiatives and the Diplomatic Academy under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kyrgyz Republic. These meetings covered best practices in policy analysis, inter-institutional coordination, and academic cooperation in regional affairs.

A special focus throughout the internship was placed on fostering a sustainable and inclusive dialogue among Central Asian analytical institutions. The importance of regular knowledge exchange, aligned research agendas, and collaborative approaches to regional development was emphasized.

The internship concluded with reinforced professional networks and institutional linkages, setting a solid foundation for long-term engagement between the expert communities of Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan.