“Borders should unite us, not divide us” – Eldor Aripov speaks about ideal model of Central Asia

The question of what kind of Central Asia we want to see in 2030 is extremely important. If we do not agree on our approaches to this issue, we will not be able to move forward, the director of the Institute for Strategic and Interregional Studies says. According to the political scientist, the ideal model of Central Asia is a strong and integrated region free from internal disputes and contradictions, united by common interests and priorities, based on common values and traditions.

“The main thing we should strive for is to eliminate existing fundamental disagreements, which still hinder the processes of regional cooperation, including border issues. Borders should unite us, not divide us.

The President of Uzbekistan has repeatedly stated that “our borders have always been the territory of friendship and good neighborliness and will remain so”. Therefore, despite all disagreements, it is important to reach a mutually acceptable compromise. This is important not only for two countries bordering each other, but also for the entire region,” Aripov said.

The second element of the ideal model should be Central Asia, which has at its disposal all the necessary platforms and mechanisms for dialogue and cooperation.

“Regional cooperation will not work if mechanisms of mutual cooperation do not work in specific areas of interest to everyone – from economy and trade to education and culture”.

The third element of the ideal model of Central Asia in 2030 is the regional identity, which should actually become the main structure.

“President Shavkat Mirziyoyev at the 4th Consultative meeting of the heads of the regional states held in Cholpon-Ota proposed to strengthen the implementation of cooperation programs in the field of culture, education, sports and tourism, as well as to study our common history in depth”.

Our goal should be creating a stable and multi-level model of relations based not only on common interests, but also on all common values and traditions.

“Each of us should feel like a representative not only of our country, but also of our entire region, and be proud of our common cultural and historical heritage,” Eldor Aripov concluded.