A delegation from the University of World Economy and Diplomacy (UWED) led by First Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs Akram Umarov visited Japan from 17 to 20 February.  The purpose of the trip was to strengthen academic contacts with leading universities and foundations, as well as to promote joint research initiatives.

 As part of the visit, the UWED representatives visited the University of Tsukuba, where they met with the Vice Rector for International Affairs, Jun San, and discussed the prospects of academic exchange and implementation of joint projects. In addition, A.Umarov delivered an open lecture for Master’s and Doctoral students on Trends in Public Administration in Central Asia: Economic Development and Resilience Building. At the end of the programme, the delegation also spoke to compatriots studying in Tsukuba, presenting them with job opportunities at UWED and details of a pilot project supported by the NipCA programme.

 The delegation also visited the Tokyo University of Foreign Studies (TUFS). During the conversation with the Rector of TUFS Kayoki Hayashi, the prospects of expanding student exchange and the possibility for Japanese students not only to study international relations at UWED, but also to teach Japanese language were discussed. The Japanese side expressed readiness to send qualified specialists to Uzbekistan and jointly develop dual degree programmes at the master’s level. Plans for in-depth study of Russian language and inclusion of additional disciplines on international relations were separately touched upon.

 During meetings with the leadership of The Nippon Foundation and Sasakawa Peace Foundation, the delegation presented the concept of a joint research project, with a special focus on Afghanistan. The sides discussed the possibilities of financing research on Afghanistan. Representatives of Japanese foundations expressed readiness to assist in opening new research centres at the University. In addition, further consultations on the development of co-operation and a visit of the leadership of The Nippon Foundation to Uzbekistan in the near future are planned.

 As a result of the visit, the sides confirmed the desire for regular contacts and development of partnership in educational, research and cultural spheres. In the near future, it is planned to prepare agreements on academic programmes and prospective scientific research.