Pakistan’s ISSI and Uzbekistan’s IICA Sign MoU to Boost Regional Collaboration

Report By Syed Farzand Ali

The Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) and Uzbekistan’s International Institute for Central Asia (IICA) have formalized a strategic partnership by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Tashkent. This collaboration aims to enhance research, policy dialogue, and cooperation on key regional issues, including connectivity, trade, infrastructure development, and security.

During the signing ceremony, Ambassador Sohail Mahmood, Director General of ISSI, and Ambassador Javlon Vakhabov, Managing Director of IICA, represented their respective institutions. Both sides engaged in a comprehensive discussion on strengthening Pakistan-Uzbekistan ties and addressing mutual challenges in the region.

Strengthening Pakistan-Central Asia Relations

Ambassador Sohail Mahmood underscored ISSI’s five decades of expertise in strategic research and international collaboration. which focuses on five key areas about Pakistan’s “Vision Central Asia” framework,
✅ Political and diplomatic engagement
✅ Trade and investment expansion
✅ Energy and infrastructure connectivity
✅ Security and defense cooperation
✅ People-to-people linkages

He emphasized Pakistan’s crucial role in providing the shortest land route for Central Asian states to access the seaports of Karachi and Gwadar. Additionally, he pointed to major connectivity initiatives such as the Trans-Afghan Railway Project and stressed the importance of integrating the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) with regional infrastructure plans.

Uzbekistan’s Vision for Regional Connectivity

Ambassador Javlon Vakhabov highlighted IICA’s commitment to fostering regional cooperation through research and policy recommendations. Established in 2021, IICA prioritizes key areas such as:
✔️ Political developments and security
✔️ Trade and investment linkages
✔️ Climate change and environmental sustainability
✔️ Cultural and historical exchanges
✔️ Regional cooperation in the C5+1 format

He emphasized that the partnership with ISSI will facilitate expert consultations on regional connectivity, trade, and security. He also underscored the economic potential of linking Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan to South Asian ports, unlocking new opportunities for commerce and investment.

Joint Research and Policy Engagement

The MoU lays the foundation for collaborative research projects, policy analysis, and academic exchanges between ISSI and IICA. Experts from both think tanks will work together to:
📌 Conduct joint studies on regional trade and connectivity
📌 Organize policy dialogues on Afghanistan and South Asia
📌 Exchange research insights on security and economic development

Earlier in the meeting, Dr. Talat Shabbir, Director of the China-Pakistan Study Centre (CPSC), briefed attendees on ISSI’s research priorities, while Dr. Khurram Abbas, Director of the India Study Centre (ISC), proposed collaborative research projects and contributions to ISSI’s publications.

The MoU represents a significant step toward deepening Pakistan-Uzbekistan cooperation and fostering a shared vision for regional peace, stability, and economic integration.