On 13 December 2024, the management and experts of the National Institute for Strategic Initiatives under the President of the Kyrgyz Republic met with Dr Azamat Seitov, Head of the IAIS Laboratory for Anthropology and Conflict Studies, in Bishkek. The discussion was also attended by experts from the Centre for Religious Studies of the State Commission on Religious Affairs of the Kyrgyz Republic.

During the event, the parties exchanged views on the prospects for joint work in such important areas as sociology, anthropology, conflict and identity studies. The participants of the meeting emphasised the importance of strengthening academic and expert cooperation between scientific institutions of the two countries and expressed readiness for further interaction. The key areas of joint research aimed at deepening the scientific dialogue and exchange of experience were tentatively agreed upon.

The day before, on 12 December, Dr Seitov held a meeting with the Director of the Institute of Strategic Analysis and Forecasting Aman Saliev. The conversation highlighted the consistent development of comprehensive strategic partnership between Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, as well as the strengthening of trusting and good-neighbourly relations. The two sides discussed prospects of bilateral and regional cooperation with a special focus on contemporary trends in Central Asia's development.

Both meetings were held in a constructive and trusting atmosphere, demonstrating mutual desire to deepen research and expert co-operation. The participants expressed confidence that expanding cooperation between research centres of Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan will be an important contribution to the development of the region's academic potential and strengthening the long-term partnership between the two countries.