WNAM REPORT: Javlon Vakhabov, Director of the International Institute for Central Asia (IICA), and Jauhar Saleem, President of the Institute of Regional Studies (IRS) of Pakistan, met in Islamabad to discuss prospects for academic and research collaboration between their respective think tanks.
Mr. Vakhabov emphasized that Pakistan was among the first nations to recognize Uzbekistan’s independence in 1991, laying the foundation for a strong and enduring friendship between the two countries and their people. He noted that bilateral relations have significantly intensified recently, culminating in the establishment of a strategic partnership in 2021.
Mr. Jauhar Saleem highlighted that enhancing mutual understanding of political, economic, and socio-cultural processes in Pakistan, Uzbekistan, and the broader Central and South Asian region should be a key priority for research institutions. He stressed that sustained engagement between think tanks will not only contribute to strengthening multifaceted bilateral relations but also facilitate the expansion of comprehensive interregional cooperation.
During the discussion, Mr. Jauhar Saleem highlighted the significance of cities such as Samarkand and Bukhara, which possess a rich historical and cultural heritage and were once home to many creative figures from Pakistan. The IICA Director also emphasized Uzbekistan’s initiatives to expand trade and investment cooperation, strengthen regional connectivity, develop transport routes between Central Asia and Pakistan, and ensure regional security, particularly in neighboring Afghanistan. Among the key projects actively promoted in recent years, the Uzbekistan – Afghanistan – Pakistan railway corridor and the Surkhan – Puli-Khumri power transmission line were highlighted.
Following the meeting, IICA and the Institute of Regional Studies of Pakistan signed a Memorandum of Understanding.
Both sides confirmed their readiness to launch joint initiatives, including organizing regular academic conferences and roundtables, implementing research projects on pressing issues of bilateral relations, and regional and international development.
