Javlon Vakhabov, the Director of the International Institute for Central Asian Studies (IICAS), engaged in discussions with Ambassador Abdujabbor Rahmonzoda, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Tajikistan to Uzbekistan, the National Information Agency of Uzbekistan reported. The meeting focused on the current state and future prospects of cooperation, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between expert and analytical circles of the two nations.

Ambassador Rahmonzoda expressed his appreciation for the positive momentum in cooperation, attributing it to the joint efforts of the leadership of both countries in building trust and fostering a deeper strategic partnership. The discussions highlighted the significance of establishing close and intensive contacts at various levels, including government officials, relevant ministries, parliamentarians, heads of border regions, and representatives from educational, cultural, and humanitarian institutions.

The diplomat underscored the extensive level of interaction achieved through various initiatives, such as economic forums, meetings of rectors, festivals, and other cultural events. Joint projects in trade, transport and logistics, industrial cooperation, agriculture, and tourism were identified as key areas that could further enhance cooperation between Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. The proposal to create an industrial and trade zone named "Uzbekistan – Tajikistan" at the "Oybek" and "Fottehabad" checkpoints was highlighted as a promising initiative.

During the meeting, both parties discussed the potential for increased collaboration between IICAS and leading expert and analytical institutions in Tajikistan, including the Center for Strategic Studies and the National Academy of Sciences. The focus was on implementing joint research projects, exchanging experiences and personnel, and organizing roundtable discussions and conferences to facilitate comprehensive interaction.

About IICAS

The International Institute for Central Asian Studies (IICAS), established in August 1995 in Samarkand, plays a crucial role in promoting historical and cultural issues related to the Central Asian region. IICAS aims to bring these issues to the attention of the international community and strengthen collaboration between local scholars and their counterparts abroad through a multidisciplinary study of the region.

IICAS operates under the governance of a General Assembly and an Academic Council, with Shahin Mustafaev and Dr. Pilho Park serving as Directors in previous terms. The institute has achieved widespread collaboration, with full members including Azerbaijan, China, Iran, Kazakhstan, Korea, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Turkey, and Uzbekistan. Additionally, IICAS engages with various institutions and scholars through associated and corresponding memberships.

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