KATHMANDU, Oct 18: The Asian Institute of Diplomacy and International Affairs (AIDIA) of Nepal and the Center for Strategic Research (CSR) under the President of the Republic of Tajikistan have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance cooperation in research and dialogue on shared interests.
The agreement, signed by AIDIA Founder Sunil KC and CSR Chair Usmonzoda Khairiddin Usmon, enables joint studies, expert exchanges, and collaborative participation in academic and policy forums in both countries, according to a statement issued by AIDIA.
“Both institutions have agreed to undertake joint projects in areas that promote regional understanding, constructive engagement, and economic diplomacy,” KC said after the signing.
As part of the partnership, AIDIA and CSR will co-host the Dushanbe Dialogue — a forum launched under the theme ‘Where Center Meets South’. The dialogue will focus on energy, security, artificial intelligence, and climate change.
“It will serve as a meeting ground for scholars, researchers, and policymakers to exchange perspectives on regional and global developments,” Usmon said.
KC added that the collaboration marks a step forward in building sustained academic and policy ties between Nepal and Tajikistan. Both institutions reaffirmed their commitment to fostering knowledge-based cooperation that contributes to peace, development, and mutual understanding.
AIDIA, an independent, non-partisan think tank established in 2014, is based in Kathmandu and focuses on foreign policy, geopolitics, trade, energy, and security. The CSR, based in Dushanbe, operates under a presidential decree as Tajikistan’s key analytical and consultative institute for public and foreign policy formulation.