The two sides discussed opportunities to strengthen cooperation between research communities in Central Asia and the United Kingdom, including joint research, expert exchanges, the development of research methods and academic events addressing current regional development issues.

Javlon Vakhabov noted that direct cooperation between think tanks and universities brings together in-depth knowledge of regional developments and international academic expertise, enhancing the practical relevance of research.

Magnus Marsden expressed the University of Sussex’s interest in expanding ties with research institutions in Central Asia and undertaking joint projects based on the exchange of knowledge and experience.

The meeting concluded with the signing of a Partnership Agreement between IICA and the University of Sussex Asia Centre. The document establishes an institutional framework for joint research, expert exchanges, conferences and seminars, as well as other initiatives of mutual interest.

The two sides agreed to begin identifying specific areas of cooperation and projects to put the Memorandum into practice.

The University of Sussex Asia Centre is a prominent British research centre specialising in Asia and interregional connections. It brings together leading scholars, undertakes major international projects, including those supported by the European Research Council, and maintains an extensive network of partners across Europe and Asia. Central Asia, Afghanistan, China and contemporary connections along the Silk Road feature prominently in its research.