Oriented on making people closer

The first regional foresight seminar, "Central Asia-2050" was held in Tashkent, during which representatives from the five countries of the region discussed long-term development strategies up to 2050. Particular attention was paid to climate change, demographic issues, and sustainable development. The scenarios developed by the experts may be presented at the level of heads of state.

The event took place on May 27–28 with the support of the European Union. The aim of the meeting was not only to exchange opinions but also to develop concrete proposals for the future of the region. The discussions focused on sustainable water resource management and the transition to renewable energy sources.

Challenges related to urbanization and population growth were also discussed. By 2050, the region's population could reach between 120 and 150 million people, with more than half living in cities. This will require the modernization of infrastructure, healthcare, education, and transportation systems.

Akramjon Ne'matov, First Deputy Director of the Institute for Strategic and Interregional Studies, emphasized that against the backdrop of global instability, it is important to develop a constructive agenda and regional dialogue. He noted the need for a clear strategy and concrete projects that will help the countries of the region jointly address challenges.

Sherzod Fayziev, Deputy Director of the International Institute of Central Asia, in turn, recalled the concept of developing regional cooperation adopted in August 2023, which defines priority areas of integration — from trade and energy to digitalization and cultural interaction.

The foresight seminar became a new platform for deepening expert cooperation and strategic planning in Central Asia.

In the context of the upcoming consultative meeting, analysts note that particular attention during the seminar should be paid to key topics such as water resources, climate, energy, transport, trade, and social development.

The European Union shares the view that these areas are the most important and require further innovation, investment, and intergovernmental dialogue, emphasized Toivo Klaar, the EU Ambassador to Uzbekistan.

"In the EU, we often say “Together is stronger” referring to cooperation between member states. We are convinced that the same principle applies to the countries of Central Asia" he noted. Foresight in Action

Foresight is a strategic forecasting method that, based on the analysis of current trends and expert opinions, helps to build scenarios for the future and take into account potential risks, explained Aida Karazhanova, a foresight expert and the seminar moderator.

Extensive preparatory work was carried out for the successful holding of the seminar, said Aziza Umarova, coordinator of the ACR results management group. Specialists used the foresight methodology of the well-known futurist Sohail Inayatullah, as well as documents and forecasts prepared with the support of the Water-Energy Program for Central Asia (CAWEP), the regional office of the UN Population Fund, and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development.

ORIENT

Photo: gazeta.uz