AIDIA, IAIS sign MoU to enhance regional collaboration

KATHMANDU: The Asian Institute of Diplomacy and International Affairs (AIDIA) and the Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS)  on Tuesday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to enhance regional collaboration.

The MoU represents a shared commitment to strengthening connections between Central and South Asia through academic and diplomatic cooperation. This partnership aims to drive initiatives in academic research, joint publications, policy dialogues, and capacity-building programmes. Both IAIS and AIDIA seek to establish meaningful platforms for dialogue, promoting peace, stability, and sustainable development across the region.

Sunil KC, Founder of AIDIA, and Shakhboz Akhmedov, Deputy Director of IAIS, signed the MoU.

During the meeting, AIDIA Founder KC engaged in in-depth discussions with Akhmedov and his team. They explored ways to strengthen ties between Nepal and Uzbekistan, emphasising the historical and strategic connections between Uzbekistan and South Asia. Their conversation underscored the critical importance of regional connectivity and cultural exchanges, highlighting Uzbekistan’s growing role as a central hub for regional diplomacy and its unique position as a bridge between Central and South Asia. Additionally, they discussed potential joint events and initiatives to address broader regional challenges, including trade and connectivity.

KC also met with Akram Umarov, First Vice-Rector of the University of World Economy and Diplomacy (UWED). Their meeting focused on identifying opportunities for collaboration between UWED and AIDIA, reinforcing the shared vision of fostering strong international partnerships to tackle regional issues effectively.

Furthermore, KC met with Sardor Mirzayusupovich Rustambaev, Ambassador of Uzbekistan to India, and explored areas of collaboration between Nepal and Uzbekistan to strengthen ties between the countries.

This MoU between IAIS and AIDIA is a testament to their dedication to building deeper relationships and fostering collaboration in the academic and diplomatic spheres. By aligning their efforts, these institutions aim to contribute meaningfully to the region’s growth and harmony.

AIDIA has been operating as an independent and non-partisan think-tank since 2014, studying the ever-evolving geopolitical and geoeconomic dynamics of the Himalayan region. Based in Kathmandu, it produces focused research and promotes dialogues on matters of geopolitics, foreign policy, aspects of global and domestic security, economics, trade, and energy.

Established on July 23, 2022, IAIS is an independent research institute within the University of World Economy and Diplomacy (UWED) under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan. The institute focuses on interdisciplinary research addressing key challenges in international studies. Through publications, lectures, and conferences, IAIS engages policymakers, scholars, and the public, fostering awareness and dialogue on critical global issues.