The Centre for European Security Studies’ EU–Central Asia Monitoring initiative has released a new episode of its podcast series “A Chat in the Yurt”, featuring Professor Timur Dadabaev, Senior Associate Fellow at IAIS.   In a wide-ranging conversation with the hosts, Prof. Dadabaev explored the evolution of Central Asian regional identity, highlighting how it develops along a path distinct from that of Eastern Europe, Russia, or South Asia, while maintaining an inclusive character that allows for multiple local and external influences. He underscored that this adaptability enables Central Asian states to both acknowledge their Soviet past and engage constructively with diverse partners such as Türkiye, China, Europe, and Russia.   The discussion also addressed comparisons between Central Asian and European regional identities, noting the unique historical and cultural trajectories shaping each. Prof. Dadabaev offered valuable insights into the perceptions of youth, observing that while regional identity may appear fragmented within the region, it often emerges more prominently when viewed from abroad.   By shedding light on these dynamics, the episode contributes to ongoing debates about the region’s place in a rapidly changing global landscape, making it a valuable resource for scholars, policymakers, and students alike.   Listen to the podcast on Soundcloud   * The Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS) does not take institutional positions on any issues; the views represented herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the IAIS.

Dr. Islomkhon Gafarov appeared as a guest on the Studio 24 program on Uzbekistan 24 TV channel. During the program, he analyzed the integration processes between the countries of Central Asia, positive changes in regional politics, and issues of international cooperation within the C5+ format.   According to him, an open political dialogue between the countries of Central Asia is currently being formed. Significant convergence is observed in areas such as foreign trade, energy, transport and communication projects, and the fight against climate change. This strengthens regional integration not only in the political sphere, but also in the economic and humanitarian spheres.   The expert also noted the expansion of the C5+ regional dialogue platform with major external partners such as the United States, the European Union, Japan, the Republic of Korea, and China. According to Dr. Gafarov, this format is becoming an important tool for bringing regional interests to the global agenda and jointly seeking solutions to issues of security, stability, and development.   During the conversation, he also paid special attention to Uzbekistan’s new foreign policy model, based on openness and constructive cooperation, strengthening the atmosphere of inter-state trust, and the role of civil society in these processes.   * The Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS) does not take institutional positions on any issues; the views represented herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the IAIS.

In a recent interview with Geopolitika Norge, Dr. Akram Umarov discussed Uzbekistan’s foreign policy vision, its strategic priorities, and the value of international academic partnerships. He emphasized Uzbekistan’s growing role as a regional connector and its ambition to foster sustainable development while maintaining balanced foreign relations. Reflecting on the country’s future, he outlined a vision of Uzbekistan as a dynamic player in regional innovation, green energy, and digital transformation.   The IAIS–Geopolitika partnership, Dr. Umarov noted, is grounded in shared values: evidence-based policy, critical thinking, and open dialogue. At a time when geopolitical tensions are sharpening, such cross-regional cooperation, linking Central Asia with Northern Europe, may offer not only new insights, but also tangible pathways for peaceful and inclusive international engagement.   Read on Geopolitika.no   * The Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS) does not take institutional positions on any issues; the views represented herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the IAIS.

In the Paradigma.uz studio, Dr. Islomkhon Gafarov analyzed the event that is to cause a sharp turn in international politics. In an interview, the political scientist commented on the geopolitical goals behind Russia's official recognition of the Taliban, the possible reaction of the US, and further actions in the region.   According to him, this move is seen as an attempt by Russia to strengthen its influence in Afghanistan and keep regional security under its control. Whose move is it now? That now depends on the position of the countries of Central Asia and China.   * The Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS) does not take institutional positions on any issues; the views represented herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the IAIS.

In an interview with Fikrat Shabanov, President of the Consultations on International Policy and Economy analytical center, Nargiza Umarova, Senior Research Fellow at IAIS, touched upon a wide range of topics related to transport geopolitics in Central Asia. Ms Umarova explained in detail the nature and significance of transport corridors in international relations, emphasizing their dual function as a tool for economic integration and a means of geopolitical influence. Particular attention was paid to the Middle (Trans-Caspian) Corridor, which, according to her, is becoming increasingly strategically important against the backdrop of the weakening of the northern route passing through Russia and Belarus due to sanctions pressure.   Ms Umarova described how countries in the region, particularly Uzbekistan, are using current geopolitical challenges as a window of opportunity to develop new routes. The middle corridor, running through Kazakhstan, the Caspian Sea, Azerbaijan, Georgia and Türkiye, has become the main focus of modernization and digitalization, facilitated by research from the World Bank and the EBRD. According to her assessment, Azerbaijan plays a key role in the infrastructure link between Central Asia and Europe thanks to the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars projects and the modernization of the port of Alat.   An equally interesting topic was the development of the southern route connecting Uzbekistan with the ports of Pakistan via Afghanistan. Umarova specifically noted that the initiative to create the Trans-Afghan railway belongs to Uzbekistan and was launched even before the Ukrainian crisis. This project is seen not only as a way to diversify export routes, but also as a means of strengthening Uzbekistan's geo-economic significance. It provides the region with access to the Indian Ocean and an alternative to Iranian and Russian routes, which is particularly relevant in light of sanctions and instability.   The interview also touched on the political and logistical nuances of supplying strategic goods, such as uranium from Uzbekistan to France. Ms Umarova emphasized that despite restrictions related to Azerbaijan’s position and geopolitical tensions, deliveries via Russia continue, as rail links are still functioning. An important part of her speech was devoted to the idea that small states such as Uzbekistan can be independent initiators and actors in logistics strategy, rather than merely objects of external influence.   In conclusion, Nargiza Umarova pointed out that modern competition in transport policy goes beyond the traditional understanding of infrastructure — it includes digitalization, tariff harmonization, environmental aspects and political stability. The formation of sustainable, multi-variant logistics links is becoming a priority for Central Asia, and the ability of the countries in the region to act in a coordinated manner will determine whether they can turn their transit position into a strategic advantage.   * The Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS) does not take institutional positions on any issues; the views represented herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the IAIS.

In an article published in the Samarkand newspaper of the Samarkand City Council of People’s Deputies and City Administration, Ashwin Raghuraman, a Visiting Junior Fellow at IAIS, noted that during his visit to Samarkand, he directly studied the tourism potential of New Uzbekistan and the opportunities created for visitors. He emphasized that, together with local specialists, he studied the processes of restoration and equipping the infrastructure of such unique monuments of the city as the Registan complex, the Gur Emir mausoleum, and the Shahi Zinda complex.   Raghuraman also noted that Samarkand’s modern hotel network, bus and rail connections, and cultural events create an attractive and comfortable environment for international tourists.   * The Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS) does not take institutional positions on any issues; the views represented herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the IAIS.