Experts discuss impact of pandemic on Central Asia and prospects for transformation

More than 350 prominent parliamentarians, scientists, representatives of the diplomatic corps accredited in Uzbekistan, as well as experts from almost 20 countries took part in the international scientific and practical online conference organized by the Senate of the Oliy Majlis in cooperation with the University of World Economy and Diplomacy and the United Nations Development Program.

The event theme was ‘The impact of the pandemic on Central Asia: first lessons, coronacrisis and the prospects for transformation.’

First Deputy Director of the Institute for Strategic and Interregional Studies under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Akromjon Nematov made a report at the conference on the role of multilateral cooperation and international organizations in emergency situations.

In his speech, he touched upon a number of urgent global challenges facing the international community, as well as the processes taking place in Central Asia.

Among the key problems hindering broad international cooperation against the background of the pandemic, the expert identified the growth of protectionist sentiments, disagreements and increasing competition among countries of the world. Such trends, according to Nematov, negatively affect the activities of international organizations created to address such challenges and protect the interests of all members of the world community.

The participants ' attention was drawn to the need to maintain a constructive dialogue and build confidence in international relations. According to the expert, without these elements, it is impossible to build unified approaches and give a coordinated response to the challenges and threats facing humanity. "Global problems require a global response," Nematov said. "Only by giving a new impetus to multilateral relations through strengthening solidarity will the countries of the world be able to overcome the negative consequences of the coronavirus crisis."