LONDON, September 17. /Dunyo IA/. The first “Central Asia–UK” Think Tank Forum took place in Tashkent, bringing together experts, representatives of state and diplomatic structures, academia and business, reports Dunyo IA correspondent.

According to the Embassy of Uzbekistan in London, forum was organized by the International Institute for Central Asia (IICA) and the UK-based Overseas Development Institute (ODI Global). The event was attended by representatives of “Chatham House”, the universities of Oxford, Cambridge, Newcastle, and Sussex, the UK Critical Minerals Association, leading think tanks from Central Asian countries and Azerbaijan, as well as the Ambassador of Uzbekistan to London and the Ambassador of the United Kingdom to Tashkent.

Participants noted that cooperation between Central Asian countries and the UK is expanding not only in the political sphere but also in trade, investment, transport, and education. Against this background, expert interaction is seen as a tool for preparing new ideas and practical recommendations.

During the forum, discussions were held on transport connectivity, cooperation in the field of critical mineral resources, strengthening investor confidence, and financial sustainability. Education, development of professional skills and safe labour mobility were also discussed.

Particular attention was paid to the practical focus of the dialogue. Representatives of analytical centers considered current issues, taking into account the interests of state institutions, business, and international organizations.

As a result of the forum, the basis was laid for further interaction between the analytical centers of “Central Asia and the UK”, including the development of professional contacts and the conduct of joint research.