The Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan (ISRS) hosted a meeting between ISRS Director Eldor Aripov and the Head of the Political Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Afghanistan Abdul Hai Qanit and the representative of the Embassy of Afghanistan in Tashkent, Hamidullah Marzee. 

The parties discussed the current state and prospects of bilateral cooperation, paying particular attention to enhancing partnerships between analytical and research institutions of the two countries. 

ISRS Director Eldor Aripov emphasized that establishing a constructive dialogue with Kabul, developing economic ties, and involving Afghanistan in regional processes are key to ensuring long-term stability in the region.

For his part, Abdul Hai Qanit noted that Afghanistan highly values Uzbekistan’s efforts to maintain pragmatic engagement. “The Termez Dialogue on Connectivity between Central and South Asia, launched in May this year, is an important initiative aimed at restoring Afghanistan’s role as a connecting bridge between Central and South Asia,” the diplomat stressed.

The meeting concluded with both sides reaffirming their commitment to expanding cooperation between think tanks. The participants agreed that closer interaction among expert and analytical circles would contribute to the development of coordinated approaches to key issues on the bilateral and regional agenda.