CAREC Institute at the 23rd Ministerial Conference in Astana

The 23rd Ministerial Conference of the CAREC Program was successfully convened on November 7–8, 2024, in Astana, bringing together high-level representatives from CAREC member countries, development partners, and senior leadership from the Asian Development Bank (ADB). Under the theme “Building a More Integrated and Resilient CAREC Region,” the conference focused on enhancing regional cooperation to promote sustainable and resilient growth across the CAREC region.

Key topics of discussion included improving regional energy security, leveraging artificial intelligence for innovative climate solutions, and the strategic development of CAREC Corridor 2—a vital trade and transit route for regional connectivity. Among the significant outcomes were the endorsement of the CAREC Climate Change Action Plan (CCAP) and the launch of the CAREC Climate and Sustainability Project Preparatory Fund (CSPPF). These initiatives are aimed at strengthening climate resilience and promoting low-carbon growth, underscoring CAREC’s ongoing commitment to sustainable development.

During Session 2: Regional Outlook and the Way Forward, CAREC Institute (CI) Director Mr. Kabir Jurazoda emphasized the critical need for sustainable growth in light of evolving economic challenges in the region. He highlighted the importance of regional cooperation and strategic investments in areas such as climate adaptation, green development, and digital transformation as key drivers for fostering a diversified and resilient economy.

Following the conference, Mr. Jurazoda engaged in a productive discussion with Mr. Song Qichao, Assistant Minister of Finance of the People’s Republic of China. He expressed deep gratitude to the Chinese Ministry of Finance for its continuous support, which has significantly advanced the mission of the CAREC Institute and enabled an ambitious reform agenda. Mr. Song reaffirmed China’s strong commitment to supporting the CAREC Institute’s initiatives and future endeavors.

Additionally, the CI team held constructive dialogues with the ADB transport sector team, exploring avenues for enhanced collaboration on transport studies, capacity-building programs, and the development of critical CAREC corridors to further strengthen regional connectivity.

The 2024 Ministerial Conference provided a key platform for reaffirming commitments, setting strategic priorities, and strengthening partnerships across CAREC’s focus areas, laying a strong foundation for sustainable, integrated growth in the region.