Round-Table Conference “Indian Foreign Policy: Engagement with Central Asia”

(Pictures: http://uwed.uz/university/gallery/section/7/)
On March 29, the Center for Political Studies, the Embassy of India in Tashkent and the University of World Economy and Diplomacy (UWED) jointly organized a Round-Table Conference “Indian Foreign Policy: Engagement with Central Asia.” The Rector of the University Prof. Khamidulla Karamatov opened the Conference with his welcoming speech. The Ambassador of India H.E. Mr. Skand R. Tayal through his keynote address set the tone of the discussions by unveiling the broad canvas of India’s engagement with Central Asia in all its multifarious dimensions. More than fourteen leading Uzbek experts on international relations and area studies along with their Indian counterparts participated in the Conference. Mr. Alisher Shaikhov, the Head of the Uzbek Chamber of Trade and Commerce also spoke in the inaugural session.
Initiating the deliberations on partnership for regional stability, Prof. Abdusamat Khaydarov of the Tashkent State Institute of Oriental Studies (TSIOS) emphasized the importance of joining hands for peace and reconstruction in Afghanistan. Prof. Nazokat Kasymova (UWED) took note of the stable growth of India in the process of globalization and Dr. N. Tulyaganova (UWED) spoke of cooperation in combating international terrorism. Prof. Shavkat Khamrakulov (TSIOS) spoke of India’s relations with major powers and Dr. Ravshan Alimov gave the Central Asian perspective on security issues and the role of India.
Uzbekistan’s first Ambassador to India, Mr. Surat Mirkasymov dwelt on the silken bonds of cultural ties and the magic woven by Indian films and songs in Central Asia. Dr. Jyotsna Bakshi, India Chair (UWED) presented a paper on the past legacy of Indo-Central Asian context and new vistas. She said that secularism and plural and tolerant societies are not mere clichés but a living reality in India as well as Central Asia.
Head of Practical Diplomacy Chair (UWED) and former Uzbek Ambassador to India, Prof. I. Mavlonov focussed on the diplomatic potential of India and Uzbekistan for sustainable inter-regional economic cooperation. Well-known educationist Prof. Dinora Azimova dealt with the important issue of surface transport corridors between Central and South Asia. Ms. Sojida Urazboeva (Institute of Strategic and Regional Studies) presented a paper on India’s energy interests in Central Asia.
The high level academic exchanges highlighted the vast potential for multi-faceted cooperation between the two neighbours.