Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The potential of Central Asian countries positions the region to become a key driver of global development. In today’s shifting geopolitical landscape, constructive engagement with leading Arab states is gaining increased relevance.

To promote such dialogue, the first Forum of Think Tanks from Central Asia and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) was held in Tashkent on 28–29 April under the theme “Strengthening Strategic Partnership: From Historical Ties to Comprehensive Cooperation.”

Participants included representatives from the Institute for Macroeconomic and Regional Studies (IMRS) under the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan. The forum focused on deepening trade and investment ties between Central Asia and the Gulf states, expanding bilateral trade, diversifying economic cooperation, and implementing joint investment projects in energy, infrastructure, agriculture, technology, and logistics.

Key proposals centered around:

High-Tech and Investment Cooperation: Establishing a joint council involving business representatives, and launching projects in the field of green energy.

Trade and Transport: Creating a free trade zone with the Gulf countries, signing a multilateral trade agreement, applying favorable tariffs for the Middle Corridor route, optimizing multimodal transport, and increasing direct flights.

Tourism: Leveraging modern cluster-based tourism development and creating a unified visa-free travel space between the Gulf and Central Asia.

Other forum initiatives aimed to strengthen long-term cooperation through youth engagement, including educational programs, scientific exchanges, sports collaboration, and media partnerships.

According to IMRS experts, regular forums of analytical centers can lay a solid foundation for strategic partnerships. A permanent think tank platform could become a practical tool for developing actionable recommendations and joint initiatives.