On October 29 of this year, the University of world economy and diplomacy hosted a delegation from Italy, including Ambassador Federico Failla, Special Coordinator for Central Asia – Italy “5+1” format, along with professors from the Universities of Bologna, Venice and Milan — Liza Borgatti, Marco Di Tommaso, Silvana Stefani, and Alessio Domeneghetti.

From UWED, the meeting was attended by First Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs Akram Umarov, Dean of the Faculty of International Economics and Management E. Abdullayev, Senior Lecturer of the Department of International Economics G. Sultanova, Professor of the Department of Systems Analysis and Mathematical Modeling A. Rasulov, Head of the Office for International Academic Cooperation G. Mirkhalilova, and Head of the Center for Sustainable Development under the Institute of Advanced International Studies Sh. Ahmedov.

At the beginning of the meeting, Akram Umarov expressed acknowledgment for the fruitful cooperation established between UWED and the University of Bologna and the achievements made in this regard. He also presented brief information about recent developments within the university system, the academic process, and newly introduced study areas.

After that, Mr. Federico Failla introduced the Italian delegation and noted the prospects of Italy–Central Asia relations, including cooperation with Uzbekistan. He emphasized the importance of further expanding bilateral ties and supporting not only collaboration among students but also among young researchers. He particularly stressed the significance of preparing specialists in regional and economic studies.

Later, Professor Marco Di Tommaso expressed his appreciation for the collaboration between UWED and the University of Bologna, highlighting that both sides had jointly applied for the “Horizon Europe” grant program.

Following this, Shahboz Akhmedov, Head of the Center for sustainable development under the Institute of Advanced International Studies at UWED, emphasized the importance of expanding international research opportunities for young scholars. He expressed readiness to establish cooperation and support joint scientific initiatives in this field.

At the end of the meeting, both parties confirmed their readiness to further strengthen mutually beneficial, sustainable, and long-term cooperation.