In an important step towards enhancing cooperation in diplomatic education and research, representatives of the University of World Economy and Diplomacy (UWED), the Diplomatic Academy and the Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS) welcomed a delegation from the Estonian School of Diplomacy.
Director Mr. Ekke Nõmm and Amb.Taavi Toom spoke about the ESD approach to diplomatic education, emphasizing its focus on practical skills, policy analysis, and the promotion of a deep understanding of international law and global affairs. Both sides noted the striking similarities in their institutional missions and aspirations, underlining the potential for synergies in academic and research exchanges.
A key focus of the discussions was the exploration of opportunities for deepening Estonian-Central Asian and EU-Central Asian relations. The dialogue focused on identifying areas where cooperation could be expanded, particularly in the areas of policy research, diplomatic training, and capacity-building initiatives.
The meeting concluded with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which symbolises a commitment to strengthen academic and research ties between the participating institutions. It is hoped that this agreement will facilitate greater cooperation in areas such as student and faculty exchanges, joint research initiatives, and collaborative training programmes, thereby contributing to the professional development of future diplomats and international relations experts.
The meeting also included esteemed guests such as the Head of the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan, Ambassador Antti Karttunen, and OSCE National Project Officer, Mirza-Ulugbek Abdullaev. Representing UWED were Akram Umarov, First Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs;Ambassador AbdusamatKhaydarov, Director of the Diplomatic Academy; Timur Rakhimov, Deputy Director; Durbek Amanov, Head of Department at the Diplomatic Academy and Head of the Centre for European Studies at IAIS; and Mushtariy Usmonova, Research Fellow at IAIS. The meeting served as a platform to explore avenues for educational cooperation, research collaboration, and dialogue on strengthening diplomatic ties between Central Asia, Estonia, and the broader European Union.
