COUNTDOWN TO THE FORUM
20 August 2026 · 08:30 Tashkent time (UTC+5)
DATES
20–21 August 2026
VENUE
Westminster International University in Tashkent (WIUT)
Room SHB501, 5th floor, Shakhrisabz Building
CITY
Tashkent, Uzbekistan
Hampton by Hilton Tashkent, 300 m from venue
Speakers
Moderators, keynote speakers, and presenters from central banks, multilateral development banks, universities, and think tanks across the CAREC region and beyond. Listed in agenda order — select a card to read the full profile.
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About the Forum
A regional platform for dialogue among think tanks, policymakers, financial institutions, and development partners, focused on advancing robust long-term financing frameworks that support sustainable and inclusive growth across the CAREC region.
CAREC Institute and Westminster International University in Tashkent (WIUT), with the Asian Development Bank, the Eurasian Fund for Stability and Development, and the PRC Fund for Poverty Reduction.
Objectives
PARTNERS
Organizer:
Co-organizer：
People‘s Government of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region
Supported:
Agenda
One and a half days of plenary sessions on financial sector development in the CAREC region.
Participants arrive on 19 August; registration opens at 08:30 on 20 August.
8:30 – 9:00
Registration
9:00 – 9:15
Opening Ceremony
Moderator: Dr. Bakhrom Mirkasimov, Deputy Rector, Westminster International University in Tashkent
Welcome Remarks
Mr. Charymuhammet Shallyyev, Director, CAREC Institute
Welcome Remarks
Dr. Komiljon Karimov, Rector, Westminster International University in Tashkent
Opening Address
Dr. Abdulla Khashimov, Advisor to the Minister, Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade of Uzbekistan
9:15 – 9:40
Keynote Address: Accelerating Innovation in Building a Sustainable and Inclusive Financial Sector in Uzbekistan and Implications for the CAREC Region
Welcome Remarks
Mr. Kamoliddin Talipov, Advisor to theChairman on Development and Coordination of the Financial Market, Central Bank of UzbekistanTBC
9:40 – 10:00
Group Photo
Official group photo of all participants.
10:00 – 11:20
Session I — Digital Finance and Fintech: Scaling Innovation Responsibly
Moderator: Dr. Christopher Gerry, Rector, University of Central Asia
This session explores how digital finance and fintech are transforming financial ecosystems in the CAREC region. It highlights the growth of fintech startups, the importance of enabling regulatory frameworks such as sandboxes, and the potential of cross-border digital financial services. Discussions emphasize balancing innovation with financial stability, promoting interoperability, and fostering a supportive ecosystem for scaling fintech solutions responsibly.
In this moderated session, the speakers will make presentations (15 minutes each) on their respective topics, and the moderator will lead and facilitate the Discussion (20 minutes) by inviting questions, comments, and participants’ feedback.
Unlocking the Potential of Fintech in Central Asia
Dr. Ghulam Samad, Head of Research, CAREC Institute
Building Robust Fintech Infrastructure: Balancing Innovation and Risks (case of China)
Ms. Meng Yan, Senior Advisor and former Global Head of Sustainable Development, Ant Group
Evolution of Fintech in the Kyrgyz Republic: Challenges and Success
Mr. Aibek Kurenkeev, President, E-Commerce Association of the Kyrgyz Republic
Digital Finance Development and Regulatory Quality in CAREC Economies: Panel Evidence from Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan
Dr. Safar Huseynov, Leading Research Fellow, Economic Scientific Research Institute, Azerbaijan
Open Discussion (20 minutes)
11:20 – 11:40
Coffee Break
11:40 – 13:00
Session II — Deepening Financial Inclusion and Expanding Access to Finance
Moderator: Mr. Dulguun Damdin-Od, Executive Director, International Think Tank for Landlocked Developing Countries
This session addresses the need to expand access to financial services for underserved groups, including rural populations, women, and MSMEs. It examines policy and market-based solutions to enhance financial inclusion, such as tailored financial products, blended finance, and SME financing mechanisms. The role of financial literacy in empowering individuals and supporting capital market development is also a central theme.
In this moderated session, the speakers will make presentations (15 minutes each) on their respective topics, and the moderator will lead and facilitate the Discussion (20 minutes) by inviting questions, comments, and participants’ feedback
Policy Challenges and Innovative Solutions to Achieve Financial Inclusion in the CAREC Region
Mr. Arif Nasibov, Regional Manager for Arab, Eastern Europe and Central Asian Region, Alliance for Financial Inclusion
Financing Women-owned SMEs in Emerging Economies: Challenges and Effective Approaches
Ms. Luiza Mamarasulova, Operations Specialist, IFC Middle East and Central Asia
Finance Access for SMEs in CAREC Countries: Building Inclusive and Resilient Financial Systems（RGP）
Ms. Abida Bibi, Researcher, Pakistan Institute for Development EconomicsRGP
Financial Literacy as a Foundation for Capital Market Development: Evidence from Turkmenistan and Regional Aspects for CAREC Countries（RGP）
Ms. Merjen Amanova, Senior Lecturer, Turkmen State Institute of Finance
Open Discussion (20 minutes)
13:00 – 14:30
Lunch Break
14:30 – 15:50
Session III — Development of Non-banking Financing Avenues
Moderator: Mr. Vitaliy Tutushkin，Deputy Governor, National Bank of Kazakhstan
This session focuses on diversifying financial systems beyond traditional banking by promoting alternative financing sources. It covers the development of venture capital, private equity, securitization, and asset-backed financing. The session also explores innovative instruments to support infrastructure and development financing, aiming to strengthen funding options for startups and large-scale investments.
In this moderated session, the speakers will make presentations (12 minutes each) on their respective topics, and the moderator will lead and facilitate the Discussion (20 minutes) by inviting questions, comments, and participants’ feedback.
Overview of the Private Capital Landscape in Central Asia
Mr. Adilgerey Namazbayev, CEO, EA Global Capital
Unlocking Risk Capital in the Middle Corridor
Mr. Alex Aleksishvili, Chairman and CEO, Policy and Management Consulting Group
Accelerating Startup Growth in Central Asia in the Epoch of AI
Mr. Adil Nurgozhin, Founding Partner, Big Sky Capital VC
EBRD Star Venture Program in Central Asian Region
Mr. Madi Kabdrgalinov, Principal Manager of ASB and Mr. Otabek Timurxodjayev, Star Venture Programme Expert, European Bank of Reconstruction and Development
Connecting Key Market Participants — Investors, Companies, Intermediaries, Regulators, and the Public — to Create Value and Foster Collaboration
Mr. Zolbayar Enkhbaatar, CEO, Capital Markets Mongolia
Open Discussion (20 minutes)
15:50 – 16:10
Coffee Break
16:10 – 17:30
Session IV — From Development Finance to Investment: Strengthening Domestic Financial Systems
Moderator: Dr. Bakhrom Mirkasimov, Deputy Rector, Westminster International University in Tashkent
This session will explore how multilateral development banks and development partners can work with domestic banks and other financial institutions to mobilize investment and strengthen financial systems. The discussion will highlight practical approaches to expanding access to long-term finance, strengthening domestic financial markets, and leveraging public and private resources to support sustainable investment and development across the CAREC region.
In this moderated session, the speakers will make presentations (15 minutes each) on their respective topics, and the moderator will lead and facilitate the Discussion (20 minutes) by inviting questions, comments, and participants’ feedback.
MDB Perspectives on Investment Mobilization and Cooperation with Domestic Banks and other Financial Entities
Mr. Murtaza Syed, Head of Ecosystem, Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank
ADB’s Experience in Enhancing the Domestic Financial System to Promote Investment
Mr. Mirzo Iskandar Gulamov, Country Operations Head, Uzbekistan Resident Mission, Asian Development Bank
Innovative Impact-focused Financial Mechanisms and Integrated National Financial Frameworks
Mr. Suren Poghosyan, Team Lead and Regional SDG Finance Advisor for Europe and Central Asia, United Nations Development Program
The Role of Microfinance Sector in Boosting Entrepreneurial Activities
Dr. Nargiza Alimukhamedova, Professor, Westminster International University in Tashkent
Open Discussion (20 minutes)
Official Launching Ceremony of CAREC Institute – Islamic Development Bank Project on “Advancing Investment Promotion for Renewable Energy and Manufacturing Sectors in Uzbekistan”
17:30 – 18:00
Introduction by Dr. Asif Razzaq, Senior Research Specialist, CAREC Institute
Opening remarks for the Project Launch by Mr. Shokhrukh Gulyamov, Deputy Minister, Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade of Uzbekistan
Remarks by Ms. Roksana Nesor, Acting Director, Investment Promotion Agency, Ministry of Investment, Industry, and Trade of Uzbekistan
Remarks by Mr. Khusan Khasanov, Country Representative in Uzbekistan, Islamic Development Bank
18:15 – onwards
Official Launching Ceremony of CAREC Institute – Islamic Development Bank Project on “Advancing Investment Promotion for Renewable Energy and Manufacturing Sectors in Uzbekistan”
9:00 – 10:00
Technical Session — CAREC Think Tank Network – Progress and the Way Forward
(Compulsory to attend for invited members of CTTN)
Moderator: Mr. Turdakun Tashbolotov, Chief, Strategic Planning Division, CAREC Institute
The CAREC Think Tank Network (CTTN) has become an important platform for knowledge sharing, joint research, and policy dialogue in the region. This session will provide an overview of the network’s progress to date, highlighting achievements, ongoing initiatives, and lessons learned. It will also serve as an open platform to gather ideas and opinions from members and partners on how to further strengthen the network’s role in advancing regional cooperation, supporting policy discourse, and enhancing visibility. Discussions will focus on practical ways to improve facilitation, expand engagement, and identify priority areas for joint work in the coming years.
CTTN Secretariat: 10th CTTN results and the way forward
Mr. Merdan Yazyyev, Senior Specialist, Strategic Planning Division, CAREC Institute
Interventions (tour de table)–Think tank network representatives: Reflections on network value and opportunities for growth (guiding questions will be distributed)
Open Discussion– Participants share ideas, proposals, and expectations for strengthening CTTN
10:00 – 11:20
Session V — Building Effective Safety Nets for Financial Sector Stability in the CAREC Region
Moderator: Dr. Sergey Ulatov, Chief Economist, Eurasian Fund for Stabilization and Development (EFSD)
This session examines how countries in the region can strengthen financial stability amid global uncertainties. It analyzes the impact of macroeconomic shocks, including inflation, interest rate changes, and commodity price volatility. Discussions also cover exchange rate risks, external debt vulnerabilities, and the role of insurance and other mechanisms in building financial safety nets to protect economies and businesses.
In this moderated session, the speakers will make presentations (12 minutes each) on their respective topics, and the moderator will lead and facilitate the Discussion (20 minutes) by inviting questions, comments, and participants’
Bridging the Implementation Gap: Building Institutional Capacity for Financial Safety Nets in the CAREC Region
Dr. Holger Floerkemeier, Director, IMF Regional Capacity Development Center for the Caucasus, Central Asia, and Mongolia
Macro-Financial Surveillance in ASEAN+3: AMRO’s Framework for Assessing Resilience to External Shocks and Safeguarding Financial Stability
Dr. Abdurohman, Deputy Director, ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office
Exchange Rate Volatility Spillovers among CAREC Countries and the Implications (RGP)
Dr. Ma Ming, Associate Professor of Finance, Beijing Institute of Technology
Assessing Exchange Rate Shock Impact on Debt Sustainability: REER Gap Estimation and Stress-Testing Results for EFSD Countries
Mr. Kirill Lemba, Economist, Eurasian Fund for Stabilization and Development
Safeguarding Financial Stability During Structural Transformation: Uzbekistan’s Experience in Balancing Liberalization and Resilience
Mr. Nodirbek Achilov, Deputy Chairman, Central Bank of the Republic of Uzbekistan
Open Discussion (20 minutes)
11:20 – 11:30
Coffee Break
11:30 – 12:50
Session VI — Perspectives of Regional Financial Cooperation
Moderator: Dr. Roman Mogilevskii, Senior Regional Cooperation Economist, Asian Development Bank
This session explores opportunities to enhance regional financial integration and cooperation. Key topics include cross-border banking, regulatory harmonization, regional payment systems, and capital market connectivity. It also addresses currency cooperation and financial safety arrangements, aiming to identify pathways for improving financial connectivity and facilitating cross-border investment within the CAREC region.
In this moderated session, the speakers will make presentations (15 minutes each) on their respective topics, and the moderator will lead and facilitate the Discussion (20 minutes) by inviting questions, comments, and participants’ feedback.
CAREC Capital Market Development and Integration
Mr. Samir Ismayilov, Financial Sector Specialist, Asian Development Bank
Role of MDB in Supporting the Regional Financial System
Mr. Madi Aldanazarov, Senior Specialist, Center for Analysis of International Finance, Eurasian Development Bank
Navigating Uncertainty: the “Dual Assurance” Path to Central Asia’s Economic Development
Dr. Abdurohman, Deputy Director, ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office
Bridging Fragmented Capital Markets in CAREC: Policy Pathways for Regional Integration and Cross-Border Investment(RGP)
Dr. Jafar Khidirov, Head of Department, Banking, Finance and Capital Market Studies, Center for Economic Research and Reforms under the Administration of the President of Uzbekistan
Open Discussion (20 minutes)
12:50 – 13:00
Closing Session
Mr. Charymuhammet Shalyyev
Director, CAREC Institute
Dr. Komiljon Karimov
Rector, WIUT
13:00 – 14:30
Lunch
15:00 – 18:00
Cultural Trip
Please scan the QR code for everything related to the Forum — the Agenda, speakers’ short biographies, the Information Note, and the Post-event Feedback Survey.
We would welcome your thoughts on how the Forum went and what we should prioritize next year. Your feedback will directly shape the next CTTDF.
Logistics
Everything you need for travel, accommodation, and daily arrangements during the Forum in Tashkent.
Venue
The Forum is held on 20–21 August 2026 (one and a half days) at Westminster International University in Tashkent (WIUT), Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Registration starts at 08:30 on 20 August — please sign the attendance sheet at the registration desk.
Room: Room SHB501, 5th floor, Shakhrisabz Building
Accommodation
Accommodation is arranged at the Hampton by Hilton Tashkent. Standard check-in is 14:00 and check-out 12:00 local time. Participants funded by the CAREC Institute should check out before 12:00 on the day of departure; if your flight departs after 18:00, please check out before 18:00. Extra charges for later check-out are at your own expense unless your flight departs after midnight.
The package includes daily buffet breakfast at the “Midtown” restaurant on the 1st floor, internet, fitness, and swimming & spa facilities. Incidentals (calls, laundry, drinks, snacks) are settled by participants at check-out and are not reimbursed.
Hampton by Hilton Tashkent
St. Istikbol 17, Yashnabad district, Tashkent 100047, Uzbekistan
Tel: (998-71) 205-22-00
Hotel website
Hotel to venue
WIUT is roughly 300 metres (a 4-minute walk) from the Hampton by Hilton. The route runs along Istikbol Street and continues onto Shakhrisabz Street directly to the campus. Organizer staff will accompany participants from the hotel lobby to the venue each morning — please gather in the lobby at the designated time.
Airport reception & transfers
The organizers provide free airport pick-up and drop-off for all participants. If your flights were not arranged by the organizers and you would like a transfer, send your flight details to the Forum Secretariat in good time.
Good to know
Visa application
Participants requiring a visa for Uzbekistan must obtain it in their home country before departure. The CAREC Institute provides a visa support letter. Check the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website and contact your nearest Uzbek embassy. Visa fees are reimbursed on submission of the original receipt and a scan of the visa in your passport.
Currency & exchange
The official currency is the Uzbek Sum (UZS); the rate is approximately 1 USD = 11,980 UZS and fluctuates daily. Exchange USD or other major currencies at the airport or any bank showing a “Currency Exchange” sign — a valid passport is required. A currency exchange ATM is available at the hotel.
Identification badges
ID badges are issued at registration. Please wear your badge at all times during the Forum and in the dining hall.
Dress code
Business attire or smart casual. The official group photo is taken on the morning of 20 August.
Internet
Wi-Fi is available in the hotel for Forum participants. At the WIUT venue, Wi-Fi access is provided through your ID badge.
Electricity
Standard power is 220 V / 50 Hz. Sockets on the WIUT campus are type E and F. Most phone, tablet, and camera chargers operate at 200–240 V.
Weather in late August
Hot and sunny with very little rain: daytime highs of 32–36 °C, dropping to 17–21 °C at night. Bring lightweight breathable clothing and a light jacket for the evenings.
Field trip
An optional tour to the State History Museum is arranged for participants interested in Uzbek cultural heritage (21 August, 15:00–18:00). Public city tour buses are also available.
Health & liability
For health emergencies, contact the Secretariat or hotel reception. Participants should arrange their own personal insurance; the CAREC Institute is not liable for personal accidents, loss, or damage to private property.
Contact
For assistance on all matters concerning the Forum — registration, transfers, visa support letters, or on-site help — please contact the Secretariat.
Mr. Merdan Yazyyev
Senior Planning Specialist
CAREC Institute
EMAIL
MOBILE
+993 62 108 785(WhatsApp)
Ms. Jesscy Hu
Coordination Specialist
CAREC Institute
EMAIL
MOBILE
+86 135 7996 7566
Mr. Akhtem Useinov
Research Fellow
Westminster International University in Tashkent
EMAIL
MOBILE
+998 90 937 0952(WhatsApp, Telegram)
Event details
DATES
20–21 August 2026 (arrival 19 August)
VENUE
Westminster International University in Tashkent (WIUT)
Room SHB501, 5th floor, Shakhrisabz Building, Tashkent, Uzbekistan
PAST FORUMS
The CAREC Think Tank Development Forum (CTTDF) is organized annually under the auspices of the CTTN. The forum has become an attractive platform for think tanks, academia, private sector and governments from the CAREC region and beyond to exchange views and knowledge on evolving regional and global policy challenges.
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The First Forum: “Promoting Economic Cooperation for an Integrated Central Asia”,
Location：Astana, Kazakhstan
Date：20-21 JUNE 2016
The CAREC Institute hosted the first CAREC Think Tank Development Forum in June 2016 in Astana, Kazakhstan, with the theme of “Promoting Economic Cooperation for an Integrated Central Asia.”
Report：
Visit Here
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The Second Forum: “Exploring Knowledge Solutions for Regional Cooperation and Integration.”
Location：Urumqi, PRC
Date：SEPTEMBER 2017
The second Forum was held in Urumqi, PRC, in September 2017 with the theme of “Exploring Knowledge Solutions for Regional Cooperation and Integration.”
Report：
Visit Here
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The Third Forum: “Building Knowledge Corridors along the Silk Road”
Location：Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic
Date：17-18 JULY 2018
Realizing its role as a knowledge arm of the CAREC 2030, the CAREC Institute partnered with the National Institute of Strategic Studies (NISS) of the Kyrgyz Republic to organize the 3rd Forum in Bishkek in July 2018.
Report：
Visit Here
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The Fourth Forum: “Trading for Shared Prosperity”
Location：Xi’an, PRC
Date：27-28 AUGUST 2019
The fourth Forum was organized in cooperation with ADB, Regional Knowledge Sharing Initiative (RKSI) and International Economics and Finance Institute (IEFE) of the Ministry of Finance of the PRC on 27-28 August 2019.
Report：
Visit Here
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The Fifth Forum: “Economic Corridors: Pathways to Regional Growth”
Location：virtual
Date：23-24 NOVEMBER 2021
The fifth Forum was organized on 23-24 November 2021 under the theme of “Economic Corridors: Pathways to Regional Growth” in collaboration with the ADB-PRC Regional Knowledge Sharing Initiative (RKSI) and the Tashkent Institute of Irrigation and Agricultural Mechanization Engineers (TIIAME).
Report：
Visit Here
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The Sixth Forum: “Recalibrating Growth Dynamics for Inclusive and Sustainable Economies”
Location：Baku, Azerbaijan
Date：15-16 SEPTEMBER 2022
The sixth Forum was organized under the theme of “Recalibrating Growth Dynamics for Inclusive and Sustainable Economies” in Baku, Azerbaijan, in partnership with the ADB-PRC RKSI, the Economic Scientific Research Institute (ESRI), the Center for Economic and Social Development (CESD) and with support of ADB.
Report：
Visit Here
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The Seventh Forum: “Embracing Digital Technology for Sustainable Economic Development”
Location：Urumqi, the PRC
Date：16-17 AUGUST 2023
The Seventh CAREC Think Tank Development Forum (CTTDF) was organized on August 16-17, 2023, in Urumqi, the People’s Republic of China (PRC) in partnership with China-Eurasia Expo Secretariat, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Finance Department, ADB-PRC Regional Knowledge Sharing Initiative (RKSI) and with the support of the Asian Development Bank.
Report：
Visit Here
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The Climate Challenge: Thinking Beyond Borders for Collective Action.
Location：Almaty, Kazakhstan
Date： August 27–28, 2024
The Eighth CAREC Think Tank Development Forum was held on August 27–28, 2024, in Almaty, Kazakhstan, under the theme “The Climate Challenge: Thinking Beyond Borders for Collective Action.”
Report：
Visit Here
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The Ninth Forum: Accelerating Transformative Effect of Green Initiatives through Innovative Financing Mechanisms in the CAREC Region
Location：Urumqi, the PRC
Date：1 DECEMBER 2025
The Ninth CAREC Think Tank Development Forum (CTTDF) is taking place in Urumqi, People’s Republic of China (PRC), under the theme “Accelerating Transformative Effect of Green Initiatives through Innovative Financing Mechanisms in the CAREC Region.”
Report：
Visit Here