Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The 4th Annual Research Conference of the CAREC Institute, held at KIMEP University on 30 August 2024, made a significant impact on the development of sustainable growth strategies in the CAREC region. More than 70 experts from academic, public, development partner, and industry circles gathered to discuss pathways for clean, innovative, and inclusive growth.

This year’s conference, held in-person for the first time, was organized in collaboration with KIMEP University’s College of Social Sciences, the China and Central Asia Research Center, and the Regional Knowledge Sharing Initiative between ADB and China (RKSI). The Asian Development Bank and the China Regional Cooperation Fund for Poverty Alleviation also provided substantial support.

"This conference demonstrated the power of collaboration across borders and disciplines. Together, we laid the foundation for a sustainable future in the CAREC region," noted Mr. Kabir Dzhurazoda, Director of the CAREC Institute.

Damian Rivas, Vice President for Academic Affairs at KIMEP University, and Ibrahim Shukri, Head of the Islamic Development Bank Regional Center in Almaty, also emphasized the role of regional partnerships in achieving sustainable development goals.

A highlight of the conference was the keynote address by Dr. Johannes F. Linn, Senior Fellow at the Brookings Institution.

"Research on regional development and climate change is essential for crafting and implementing effective policies. The 4th Annual Research Conference of the CAREC Institute provides a unique opportunity for experts from the CAREC region and beyond to deepen our understanding of critical development and climate issues. However, it is crucial that we translate this knowledge into actionable measures to achieve sustainable impact. Bridging the gap between research and effective action is a key role for think tanks like the CAREC Institute," stated Dr. Johannes F. Linn.

The conference focused on six thematic sessions covering a broad range of topics, including energy transition, green initiatives, trade connections, and innovative approaches to combating inequality. One session, in partnership with RKSI ADB-China, featured analytical materials from the CAREC corridors measurement and monitoring database, sparking valuable discussions on improving trade and connectivity.

Discussion participants, including representatives from the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), the Islamic Development Bank (IDB), KIMEP University, the ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office (AMRO), and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), engaged in dynamic debates exploring innovative solutions and policies necessary for regional progress.

The conference also marked the release of the third annual CAREC Institute book, "Prospects for Inclusive Green Growth and Sustainability in the CAREC Region," and a strategic joint report with ESCAP on digital and sustainable trade facilitation. These publications reflect the spirit of collaboration from the conference and will be important resources for future policy development.

The event concluded with closing remarks by Kuat Akizhanov, Deputy Director of the CAREC Institute, and Dr. Xiaotong Zhang, Academic Director of the China and Central Asia Research Center at KIMEP University. Over the two days, the event featured intensive discussions and the exploration of forward-looking strategies. This collaboration reaffirmed both institutions’ commitment to regional development and laid the groundwork for ongoing research and dialogue aimed at sustainable prosperity.