The discussion was focused in key regional issues, prospects for sustainable development in Central Asia, and the growing role of research and analytical institutions in shaping this agenda.
Amb.Vakhabov emphasized that Uzbekistan attaches significant importance to advancing economic liberalization reforms, fostering a favorable investment climate, expanding its integration into global value chains, and improving the population's quality of life.
International financial institutions, notably the Asian Development Bank (ADB), are making a substantial contribution to the successful execution of these transformations. Similarly, the CAREC Program, implemented with ADB support, plays a significant role in modernizing and expanding the economic potential of its member states.
An important step in deepening cooperation was the signing of a new $12 billion program between Uzbekistan and ADB during the 59th Annual Meeting of the ADB Board of Governors in Samarkand. This initiative is aimed at developing modern infrastructure, enhancing human capital, and alleviating poverty.
Charymukhammet Shallyev emphasized that the CAREC Institute attaches special importance to consolidating the research capacities of leading think tanks of the Program’s member states. This approach enables the development of coordinated strategies to address shared challenges.
In this context, Director Shallyev highly commended the collaboration between the CAREC Institute and IICA. A practical outcome of this partnership was the joint roundtable on sustainable development and poverty alleviation held in Urumqi.
The parties also explored opportunities to deepen cooperation in academic research, expert exchanges, and the preparation of analytical materials. Artificial intelligence, green finance, renewable energy, and human capital development were highlighted as priority areas.
Concluding the meeting, the IICA and the CAREC Institute signed a Memorandum of Understanding, laying the foundation for implementing joint research projects and advancing shared initiatives.
