Tashkent, Uzbekistan – On May 23, 2024, researchers and experts from the Institute of Advanced International Studies (IAIS) participated in a workshop hosted by the Diplomatic Academy at the University of World Economy and Diplomacy (UWED) and the Prince Saud Al-Faisal Institute for Diplomatic Studies of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. 

Dr. Akram Umarov, the First Vice Rector for Academic Affairs at UWED, warmly welcomed the delegation, setting a positive tone for the event, which featured comprehensive reports followed by in-depth discussions on the prospects of cooperation, the development of bilateral relations between the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and approaches to regional security for both countries. Additionally, the role of Israel in regional stability and potential threats in the Middle East were examined.

During the first session, representatives from both institutions, Dr. Ali Al Qarni and Dr. Durbek Amanov, provided insights into the structure of their respective institutes and discussed prospects for cooperation in the training of diplomats. Both institutions expressed a willingness to launch collaborative educational programs, cultural language exchange initiatives, and exchanges of research and publications. The second session focused on a retrospective analysis and the development of political, economic, and cultural-humanitarian relations between the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, highlighting the progress made and identifying areas for further enhancement of bilateral ties. 

The third session, moderated by Mr. Shakhboz Akhmedov, Deputy Director of IAIS, focused on ensuring regional security in Central Asia. It examined the approaches of Uzbekistan and Saudi Arabia and addressed the role of Afghanistan in regional stability, along with the challenges facing Saudi Arabia. Dr. Mansor Al Marzoqui from the Prince Saud Al Faisal Institute for Diplomatic Studies discussed security challenges in the Middle East, while Dr. Akram Umarov analyzed the regional integration of Central Asian countries and its development phases. Both participants exchanged opinions and insights on their respective countries' foreign policies.

In concluding remarks, Prof. Abdusamat Khaydarov, Director of the Diplomatic Academy at UWED, highlighted the importance of regional security for any form of development and proposed the publication of works covering the cooperation between Central Asian and Persian Gulf countries in this regard. The workshop underscored the shared commitment of Uzbekistan and Saudi Arabia to fostering strong bilateral relations and addressing regional security challenges through collaborative efforts.