On 10 December 2024, the Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS) hosted a meeting with the Asian Institute of Diplomacy and International Affairs (AIDIA, Nepal), represented by its Founder and Director, Mr. Sunil KC. The meeting culminated in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), formalising a collaborative partnership aimed at fostering regional connectivity and enhancing academic and diplomatic engagement between Central and South Asia.

The IAIS delegation, led by Deputy Director Mr. Shakhboz Akhmedov, accompanied by Ms. Mekhriniso Abdurasulova, Head of the Japan Studies Programme; Mr. Hamza Boltaev, Head of the Centre for Afghanistan and South Asian Studies; Senior Research Fellows Mr. Islomkhon Gafarov and Mr. Fazlidding Djamalov; and Research Fellow Mr. Azizjon Ziyodullaev, underscored Institute’s commitment to advancing research and dialogue on pressing regional and global issues.

During the discussions, the participants emphasised the importance of strengthening ties between two landlocked nations, with a particular focus on historical and strategic linkages between Uzbekistan and South Asian countries. They explored the pivotal role of regional connectivity in unlocking economic opportunities, fostering cultural exchange, and promoting mutual understanding. The meeting also addressed Uzbekistan’s expanding role as a hub for regional diplomacy, which serves as a bridge linking Central and South Asia. Discussions further touched on prospective joint events and the potential for collaborative efforts to address broader issues of connectivity, trade, and regional dynamics.

The MoU signed between IAIS and AIDIA lays the foundation for deeper cooperation in areas such as academic research, joint publications, policy dialogues, and capacity-building initiatives. Both institutions expressed a shared vision of creating platforms for dialogue that contribute to peace, stability, and sustainable development across the region.

Mr. Sunil KC, speaking on behalf of AIDIA, highlighted the transformative potential of partnerships like this, stating that the MoU represents a vital step towards strengthening people-to-people and institutional ties. Deputy Director Shakhboz Akhmedov echoed these sentiments, reaffirming IAIS’s dedication to fostering collaborative initiatives that align with Uzbekistan’s strategic priorities in regional and international affairs.

In addition, Mr. Sunil KC, met with Dr. Akram Umarov, First Vice-Rector of the University of World Economy and Diplomacy (UWED). Their meeting focused on exploring potential collaborations between UWED and AIDIA, further highlighting the shared commitment of academic and diplomatic institutions in strengthening international partnerships and addressing regional challenges.

This engagement underscores IAIS’s and UWED’s dedication to fostering international cooperation and advancing sustainable solutions to critical challenges in water resource management and regional diplomacy.