During the meeting, the two sides exchanged views on key regional and international developments and explored opportunities to establish partnerships between think tanks in Uzbekistan and Iraq.

At the outset of the meeting, IICA Director Javlon Vakhabov briefed the KCDSS representatives on the Institute’s activities, goals and objectives. He also provided an overview of the current dynamics of cooperation in Central Asia and interaction among the countries of the region within the “CA +” platforms.

KCDSS President Hasan Turan noted that Iraq and Uzbekistan share deep historical and cultural ties, providing a strong foundation for expanding bilateral cooperation.

According to Mr. Turan, the active engagement of research and analytical institutions in building mutually beneficial partnerships is essential to advancing this process.

The organization of joint expert-level events and collaborative research were identified as priority areas for cooperation.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the two sides reaffirmed their commitment to advancing practical cooperation.

The Kirkuk Center for Dialogue and Strategic Studies (KCDSS), an Iraqi research and analytical center established in Kirkuk in 2025, specializes in the study of political and economic developments in the Middle East.