CAREC Institute and AMRO Side Meeting at AIIB Annual Meeting

On September 24, during the Asia Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) Annual Meeting in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, an important discussion took place between Mr. Kabir Jurazoda, Director of the CAREC Institute (CI), and Dr. Li Kouqing, Director of the ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office (AMRO). This meeting emphasized the critical importance of strengthening economic ties and fostering collaborative initiatives between the CAREC and ASEAN+3 regions.

The dialogue focused on several strategic areas of cooperation, including joint research and capacity-building programs aimed at advancing regional economic integration. Both leaders expressed deep appreciation for their longstanding partnership and reaffirmed their commitment to expanding these efforts. Dr. Li highlighted that AMRO’s goal of promoting regional cooperation and economic stability would be significantly advanced through these initiatives, strengthening the resilience and prosperity of the economies across both regions.

Proposals included joint seminars and research focused on sharing best practices from both regions, particularly in infrastructure development, trade facilitation, and digitalization. Special emphasis was placed on capacity-building programs to enhance macroeconomic policy management, trade and investment facilitation, financial sector development, and sustainable practices, especially climate resilience. These programs aim to equip government officials and policymakers with the expertise to navigate and address complex economic challenges. The parties agreed to hold internal discussions in the near future to identify topics for a joint study. It was also agreed that CI representatives would attend the AMRO capacity-building event and share knowledge in the future.

Mr. Jurazoda also explored the potential for human resource exchanges to deepen collaboration and dialogue on regional economic trends. These exchanges are expected to further strengthen the cooperative framework between CAREC and ASEAN+3, fostering open communication and shared learning.