On January 6, 2026, the University of World Economy and Diplomacy (UWED) launched a unique academic program — the Winter School of Central Asia. The opening ceremony brought together participants, experts and honored guests to start an intensive five-day educational marathon.

Opening the event, the First Deputy Chairman of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Rector of the UWED Sodyq Safoev emphasized the importance of this initiative for an in-depth study of the region and the development of intercultural dialogue. He noted that the school will become a platform for a constructive exchange of views and the formation of new approaches to understanding Central Asian dynamics.

Welcoming reports at the ceremony were made by:

Akram Umarov, First Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs of the UWED, on the topic "Central Asia in Perspective: Geography, Borders, and Regional Identity".

Hamza Boltaev, Senior Research Fellow at the Center for Afghanistan and South Asian Studies of the Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS), who shared his expert view on regional processes.

For information. The Winter School of Central Asia at UWED is a special intensive program aimed at a comprehensive study of the geopolitical, cultural and economic factors that shape the modern image of Central Asia. For five days, local and international students, undergraduates and young researchers will be able to immerse themselves in the current regional agenda through lectures, discussions, cultural excursions and interactive sessions led by recognized local and international experts and scientists.

The Winter School reflects the University of World Economy and Diplomacy's commitment to academic excellence and active participation in discussions of regional and international importance. As a leading university in Uzbekistan, training future diplomats, economists and international affairs experts, UWED creates a dynamic environment for critical analysis of global challenges. Through an interdisciplinary approach and a wide network of partnerships, the university makes a significant contribution to the study of current trends and the search for solutions to strengthen regional cooperation.

The Winter School of Central Asia promises to be a significant event in the academic life of the region, contributing to the expansion of professional ties and the formation of a new generation of experts on Central Asia.