On October 26 of this year, the University of World Economy and Diplomacy hosted an international scientific and practical conference on the topic: “New Central Asia: Challenges and Opportunities in the Era of Global Transformation.”

It was organized by the Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan (ISRS) in partnership with the International Institute of Central Asia (IICA), the University of World Economy and Diplomacy (UWED) and the German Friedrich Ebert Foundation.

The conference was attended by over 40 heads and specialists from leading expert-analytical and research centers from more than 20 countries of Central Asia, the CIS, Europe, Asia, North America, and the Middle East.

Opening the event, ISRS Director Eldor Aripov especially emphasized that “New Central Asia is a region that has completely turned its perception of itself in a positive direction in a fairly short period of time.”

"Today, thanks to the political will and joint efforts of the leaders of the countries of the region, we have managed to change the modern image of Central Asia, transform it into a space of good neighborliness, mutual trust and cooperation. Our states have created a unique regional model that is resistant to external challenges, demonstrating their readiness to take responsibility for the common future of the region, ensuring its security and stability," said E. Aripov.

First Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs of UWED Akram Umarov emphasized that historically Central Asia has been a link between trade, culture and diplomacy. Speaking about the social aspects of transformation in the region, he emphasized: "The youth of Central Asia, who represent a significant part of our population, hold the key to our future in their hands. Their aspirations, creativity and potential should be nurtured through education and empowerment."

The conference participants paid special attention to the initiative of the President of Uzbekistan Sh. Mirziyoyev on the need to develop and adopt the Concept of Ensuring Regional Security and Stability, which he presented at the 6th Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia on August 9, 2024.

Experts also emphasized the importance of developing educational exchange programs for students. In this vein, it was noted that a promising direction is the creation of a single information, cultural and educational space.