The Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS) hosted an engaging seminar as part of its #FrontierTalks series, spotlighting Takayoshi Kato, an Environmental Economist from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). Mr. Kato’s lecture, titled “Strengthening Climate Resilience in Central Asia”, addressed critical strategies for bolstering regional resilience to climate change by focusing on the water-energy-land nexus and integrating cross-sectoral approaches.
The seminar attracted profound interest from IAIS experts, as well as students and faculty from the University of World Economy and Diplomacy (UWED). The lecture’s themes resonated strongly with attendees, as Mr. Kato elaborated on climate resilience as a multi-faceted capability for adapting to adverse climate impacts and managing risks across economic, social, and environmental dimensions. Emphasising country ownership and inclusive approaches, he highlighted that effective resilience strategies should consider not only national-level policies but also sub-national contributions and the participation of diverse stakeholders, including civil society and the private sector.
Mr. Kato detailed an array of practical mechanisms that countries in Central Asia can adopt to enhance resilience, from financial management instruments and data-driven decision-making to strengthening local governance frameworks. Additionally, he outlined the role of innovative technologies and localised policy dialogues in embedding climate risk considerations into both governmental and private-sector decision-making processes. His insights underscored the necessity of using targeted investment strategies to foster resilience while simultaneously upholding environmental sustainability and social inclusivity principles.
Following the lecture, a spirited discussion ensued, allowing participants to delve deeper into specific climate resilience challenges facing Central Asia. Attendees engaged Mr. Kato in dynamic dialogues, raising pertinent questions regarding the integration of resilience strategies within existing socio-economic frameworks and exploring potential pathways for aligning these efforts with sustainable development goals.
In recognition of his valuable contributions, IAIS Deputy Director Mr. Shakhboz Akhmedov presented Mr. Kato with a commemorative souvenir, symbolising the Institute’s appreciation and commitment to continued collaboration with the OECD. Looking ahead, IAIS expresses hope for further cooperative initiatives with Takayoshi Kato and OECD experts, envisioning additional collaborative projects to advance sustainable and resilient development in the region.
