During the discussion, the IICA Director J.Vakhabov emphasized the importance of fostering cooperation with leading think tanks in the Gulf region to enhance mutual understanding between our regions and facilitate the exchange of expert knowledge.

In response, Dr. Sager underscored GRC’s commitment to expanding partnerships with research institutions in Central Asia. He noted that such dialogue would contribute to a deeper analysis of regional dynamics and the development of joint policy recommendations.

The parties discussed key issues of regional cooperation between Central Asian countries and the member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). Particular attention was given to the initiatives proposed by the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, at the inaugural Central Asia–GCC Summit in Jeddah on July 19, 2023. These discussions focused on the development of a multilateral Agreement on Friendship, Regional Connectivity, and Cooperation, the establishment of an Investors' Council involving business representatives from both regions, and the implementation of joint projects in the field of green energy.

The leadership of IICA and GRC expressed a shared interest in launching joint research initiatives, organizing conferences, roundtables, and seminars to deepen engagement between the expert communities of both regions. It was highlighted that such events would facilitate the exchange of best practices and contribute to the development of new forms of cooperation in the lead-up to the upcoming Central Asia–GCC Summit in Samarkand.

Gulf Research Center (GRC) is an independent, non-profit think tank based in Jeddah, founded in July 2000 by Saudi businessman Dr. Abdulaziz Sager. GRC conducts researches on a wide range of issues related to the strategically significant Gulf region, encompassing the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, as well as Iran, Iraq, and Yemen.