Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) -- Zhao Zhimin, Secretary-General of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS), delivered a video address at the IV Central Asia-China Think Tank Forum held today in Tashkent.

The CASS Secretary-General praised the organization of the IV Central Asia-China Think Tank Forum, stating, "This academic seminar is of great significance for strengthening ties between China and the Central Asian countries and developing bilateral and multilateral cooperation formats."

Zhao Zhimin highlighted the positive economic breakthrough seen in the interaction between China and Central Asia. "In 2023, the trade volume between China and the five Central Asian countries increased by nearly 30% compared to 2022," he noted.

Furthermore, Zhao Zhimin emphasized several crucial areas for strengthening multilateral cooperation in the Central Asia-China format. He believes it is essential to enhance partnerships in the fields of economy, climate change, digitalization, science, and education, which will undoubtedly contribute to the region’s sustainable development.

The event, organized by the Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan in collaboration with the Institute of Russia, Eastern Europe, and Central Asia of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, saw the participation of over 40 leaders and experts from about 20 leading research and analytical centers, as well as heads of diplomatic missions from China and Central Asian countries in Uzbekistan.

The forum is being held as part of the practical implementation of the initiative proposed by the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, at the May 2023 summit of the heads of state of China and Central Asian countries in Xi’an.