Report on the International Conference

Wednesday, March 25, 2026

Introduction

1.1
The International Conference on “India–Central Asia: Connectivity, Security, and Sustainable Partnerships in a Multipolar World”, was organised by the India Central Asia Foundation with the support of the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India at the India International Centre in New Delhi during March 25–26, 2026. The conference brought together a diverse group of scholars, policymakers and practitioners. The conference witnessed active participation from both national and international delegates, reflecting its global academic and strategic relevance. Notably, ambassadors of Central Asian countries to India enriched the deliberations with their diplomatic insights. The event provided a vibrant platform for dialogue on emerging regional dynamics and collaborative opportunities. It fostered meaningful exchanges aimed at strengthening India–Central Asia engagement in a rapidly evolving multipolar world.

1.2
A copy of the Programme and a list of participants are placed at Appendix# 1 and 2, respectively.

1.3
The International Conference was attended by a wide range of distinguished experts, scholars and practitioners from premier institutions such as Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi; Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, Centre for Central Asia Studies, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, Centre for Central Asian Studies, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, Jadavpur University, Kolkata, West Bengal; Asia in Global Affairs, Kolkata, Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Kazakhstan; Diplomatic Academy at the University of World Economy and Diplomacy, Tashkent, Uzbekistan; ADA University, Baku, Azerbaijan; National MANAS Academy, Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic, Institute of International Relations, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, Centre for Strategic Research under the President of the Republic of Tajikistan, Nichols College, Massachusetts, USA; and various universities and research institutions across India. The conference also witnessed participation from think tanks and organisations, including the Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA), New Delhi; Vivekananda International Foundation (VIF), New Delhi; Asia in Global Affairs, Kolkata and Manohar-Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses, New Delhi. Senior officials, former diplomats and representatives from the Ministries of External Affairs, Ministry of Commerce and Ministry of Culture, Government of India, actively contributed to the discussions. Notably, eminent diplomats and representatives from Central Asian countries, including Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, and Turkmenistan, enriched the deliberations. The conference also saw participation from industry experts, academicians and scholars from MERI Group of Institutions, New Delhi along with several participants joining through online platforms.

2. Objectives

2.1
The conference aimed to critically examine the shifting geopolitical landscape of Central Asia within an emerging multipolar world and its implications for India. It sought to foster deeper dialogue on regional security challenges, including geopolitical competition, stability concerns, and the role of major powers. A key objective was to bring together policymakers, diplomats and scholars to generate informed perspectives and policy-oriented recommendations to enhance India–Central Asia strategic engagement.

2.2
Another major objective was to explore opportunities for improving regional connectivity through transport corridors, energy cooperation and infrastructure development. The conference emphasized the importance of strengthening economic ties, trade linkages and investment flows between India and Central Asian countries. It also aimed to assess the role of regional institutions and collaborative frameworks in promoting sustainable economic growth and long-term partnerships.

2.3
The conference sought to highlight the deep-rooted historical and cultural connections between India and Central Asia as a foundation for contemporary cooperation. It encouraged dialogue on people-to-people engagement, academic exchange and cultural diplomacy to reinforce mutual understanding. Additionally, the objective was to promote sustainable partnerships by integrating economic, cultural and institutional dimensions, thereby contributing to a holistic and enduring India–Central Asia relationship.

2.4
The two-day conference had Seven Sessions:

• Inaugural Session
• Session # 2: Geopolitics in Flux: Central Asia and the Emerging Multipolar Order
• Session # 3: Role of Regional Institutions in Central Asian Development
• Session # 4: Connectivity and Infrastructure – Challenges and Prospects for Regional Cooperation
• Session # 5: Enhancing Economic Cooperation between India – Central Asia
• Session # 6: India – Central Asia: Historical and Cultural Ties
• Session # 7: Concluding Session

3. Points from Paper / Speeches

3.1 Inaugural Session

The Inaugural session set the intellectual and strategic tone for the deliberations. The Welcome Remarks were delivered by Ambassador A.K. Sharma, President of the India Central Asia Foundation, who highlighted the growing significance of India–Central Asia engagement in an evolving geopolitical landscape. The Inaugural Address by Hon’ble Shri Kanwal Sibal, Chancellor of Jawaharlal Nehru University, underscored the strategic, economic and cultural dimensions of this partnership, while the Guest of Honour, Mr Mayank Singh, Joint Secretary (ERS), Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India emphasised India’s policy priorities in strengthening regional ties.

The session also featured the release of key scholarly works – India–Kazakhstan Partnership in a Changing Geopolitical Order, Kirgiz Vir Gatha Kavya “Manas” and India and Central, East and Southeast Asia: Enhancing the Partnership – reflecting the academic depth of the conference. The proceedings concluded with a formal Vote of Thanks by Prof (Dr) Ramakant Dwivedi, Director, India Central Asia Foundation.

The conference unfolded against the backdrop of a rapidly evolving geopolitical environment, shaped by the ongoing Russia – Ukrainian war and escalating tensions in West Asia involving Iran, Israel, and the United States. A key concern was the growing uncertainty surrounding regional connectivity initiatives, particularly Iran’s Chabahar Port, which remains central to India – Central Asia trade and broader Eurasian integration. Participants noted that the widening West Asian conflict poses significant risks to trade routes, economic stability, and long-term strategic investments, potentially undermining years of regional cooperation.

Despite these challenges, the deliberations emphasised the importance of pragmatic engagement, restraint, and sustained dialogue. A central takeaway was the shared inclination of India and Central Asian countries to avoid bloc politics, prioritise national interests, and maintain strategic autonomy within an emerging multipolar world order. While expectations were raised regarding India’s potential mediatory role, it was clarified that India would not assume such a position, although all participants supported peaceful conflict resolution through dialogue.

The conference further highlighted Central Asia’s increasing geopolitical relevance and stressed the need to deepen India–Central Asia cooperation in areas such as security, connectivity, and economic resilience. Participants emphasised diversifying trade routes, enhancing regional self-reliance, and strengthening intra-regional cooperation mechanisms independent of external influences. Connectivity constraints, exacerbated by ongoing conflicts, were identified as a major impediment to regional development.

In addition, the discussions reaffirmed the importance of collaboration with Afghanistan and the strengthening of institutional frameworks to address shared security concerns. While acknowledging the role of regional organisations, participants called for greater regional ownership in shaping development trajectories. Importantly, the conference adopted a forward-looking perspective, advocating the strengthening of historical and cultural linkages, expansion of educational exchanges, and promotion of academic and policy collaborations to revive the traditional India – Central Asia connection rooted in Silk Road interactions.

Overall, the conference emerged as a constructive platform that balanced geopolitical challenges with actionable strategies, reinforcing a shared commitment to peace, stability and sustainable regional partnerships in a complex and transforming global order.

JS (ERS) addressing the Conference

Session # 2: Geopolitics in Flux: Central Asia and the Emerging Multipolar Order

The first academic session of the conference, titled “Geopolitics in Flux – Central Asia and the Emerging Multipolar Order,” was chaired by Amb Gitesh A. Sarma, Vice-President of India Central Asia Foundation. In his opening remarks, he set the context by underscoring the increasing strategic relevance of Central Asia in global geopolitics, particularly amid shifting power balances, regional conflicts and the growing role of emerging powers such as India.

Prof Abdusamat Khaydarov, Director, Diplomatic Academy, University of World Economy and Diplomacy Ministry (UWED), Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Tashkent, Uzbekistan, highlighted the region’s growing strategic significance amid shifting global power dynamics. He emphasized that Central Asian states are increasingly adopting balanced and multi-vector foreign policies to navigate competing interests of major powers. He underscored the importance of regional cooperation, economic diversification and connectivity initiatives in ensuring stability and sustainable development.

Prof Kuralay Baizakova, Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Almaty, Kazakhstan, focused on strategic positioning amid shifting global power dynamics. She emphasized the country’s multi-vector foreign policy, balancing relations with major powers such as Russia, China and the West while expanding engagement with partners like India. She underscored the importance of regional stability, economic diversification and institutional cooperation, noting that Kazakhstan seeks to play a proactive role in shaping a stable and inclusive multipolar order.

Major Gen B. K. Sharma, AVSM, SM and Bar (Retd), Former Director, United Services Institution of India (USI), New Delhi, examined the shifting geopolitical landscape of Central Asia with a focus on Kazakhstan’s strategic importance in an evolving multipolar world. He discussed the impact of great power competition, regional security concerns and emerging alignments on the region. He emphasized the need for strengthening security cooperation, enhancing strategic partnerships and promoting stability through balanced foreign policy approaches, while highlighting opportunities for deeper India–Central Asia engagement.

Prof Vadim B. Kozyulin, Center for Contemporary Studies, Diplomatic Academy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia, Moscow, Russia, emphasized the crucial role of regional organisations in promoting stability, economic growth and policy coordination in Central Asia. He highlighted how institutions facilitate cooperation in areas such as security, trade and infrastructure development. He also discussed the challenges these institutions face, including geopolitical competition and limited integration, while stressing the need for stronger multilateral frameworks to ensure sustainable development and regional cohesion.

Session # 3: Role of Soft Power in Enhancing Cooperation

The third academic session of the conference was focused on “The Role of Regional Institutions in Central Asian Development”, highlighting the significance of multilateral frameworks, regional cooperation mechanisms, and institutional linkages in shaping the socio-economic and political trajectory of Central Asia. The session broadly examined how regional organisations and partnerships contribute to economic growth, security cooperation and sustainable development, while also addressing emerging challenges such as geopolitical competition, governance gaps and regional cooperation and integration.

The session was chaired by Dr. Arvind Gupta, Director, Vivekananda International Foundation, New Delhi and former Deputy National Security Advisor, Government of India. In his opening remarks, he emphasised the critical role of regional institutions in fostering stability and cooperation in Central Asia and highlighted India’s growing engagement with these platforms.

Anita Sengupta, Director, Asia in Global Affairs, Kolkata, discussed the evolving nature of regionalism in Central Asia and its implications for development. She highlighted the complexities of defining regions in a geopolitically fluid environment and emphasised the role of regional cooperation frameworks in fostering economic growth and connectivity. She also underlined challenges such as political fragmentation and external influences, stressing the need for inclusive, flexible and development-oriented regional approaches.

Amb Irina Orolbaeva, former ambassador of Kyrgyz Republic to India, Bishkek, provided valuable diplomatic insights into the role of regional cooperation in strengthening economic and political ties within Central Asia. She stressed the importance of collaborative approaches and highlighted Kyrgyzstan’s engagement in regional initiatives aimed at development and stability.

Raj Kumar Sharma, Associate Professor, International Relations at School of Humanities, Social Sciences & Liberal Arts, SGT University, Gurugram and Dr. Beena, Assistant Professor, MERI Centre for International Studies, New Delhi, jointly highlighted the role of regional frameworks in addressing climate challenges such as water scarcity, environmental degradation, and energy transitions. They highlighted the need for stronger institutional coordination and cross-border cooperation to ensure sustainable resource management. The paper emphasized India’s potential role in supporting climate resilience through technology transfer, policy collaboration and capacity-building initiatives in the region.

Pramod Kumar, Associate Professor, Centre for Russian and Central Asian Studies, School of International Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, examined the structural and geopolitical constraints affecting regional integration. He highlighted challenges such as political divergences, limited economic complementarities and external power influences. He also discussed institutional weaknesses and a lack of cohesive policy frameworks that hinder effective cooperation. Emphasising the need for trust-building and stronger regional mechanisms, he argued for enhanced collaboration to address shared concerns and promote sustainable regional development.

Session # 4: Connectivity and Infrastructure – Challenges and Prospects for Regional Cooperation

The fourth academic session focused on “Connectivity and Infrastructure – Challenges and Prospects for Regional Cooperation,” highlighting the centrality of physical and digital connectivity in strengthening India – Central Asia relations. The session broadly examined transport corridors, energy networks and logistical frameworks as key drivers of regional integration, while also addressing challenges such as geopolitical constraints, financial limitations and infrastructural gaps.

The session was chaired by Dr. Anita Sengupta, Director, Asia in Global Affairs, Kolkata, who, in her opening remarks, emphasised the strategic importance of connectivity initiatives in promoting economic cooperation and regional stability. She highlighted the need for collaborative and sustainable infrastructure development to unlock the full potential of India – Central Asia engagement.

Nargiz Azizova, Senior Research Fellow, Institute for Development and Diplomacy (IDD), ADA University, Baku, Azerbaijan, discussed the strategic importance of the South Caucasus as a key transit hub linking Central Asia with global markets. She highlighted emerging transport corridors, energy routes and digital connectivity initiatives shaping regional integration. She also discussed geopolitical challenges, including competing interests of major powers and emphasized the need for coordinated policies, multilateral cooperation, and sustainable infrastructure development to enhance regional connectivity.

Punit Gaur, Research Fellow, Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA), New Delhi, emphasized that deeper regional collaboration is key to realizing Central Asia’s economic potential. He highlighted the importance of transport corridors, trade facilitation, and institutional linkages in improving connectivity. He also discussed India’s role through initiatives like the International North-South Transport Corridor, stressing the need for coordinated policies, investment and multilateral partnerships to overcome logistical and geopolitical challenges.

Praduman Gupta, Director, Indo-Arabian Shipping Lines India Pvt Ltd, New Delhi provided an industry perspective, discussing the practical challenges in maritime logistics, trade facilitation, and supply chain connectivity. He stressed the importance of private sector participation and efficient infrastructure in boosting regional trade.

Herkan Neadan Toppo, Jadavpur University, Kolkata, West Bengal, analysed the evolving strategic partnership between China and Russia in Central Asia. He highlighted how their cooperation and competition shape regional power dynamics, influencing security, connectivity, and economic initiatives. He emphasized the implications for India, stressing the need for a nuanced and adaptive policy approach to safeguard its strategic interests and enhance engagement in the region.

Thursday, March 26, 2026

Session # 5: Enhancing Economic Cooperation between India-Central Asia

The session was chaired by Amb Ashok Kumar Sharma, President, India Central Asia Foundation, who, in his opening remarks, emphasized the untapped economic potential between India and Central Asia. He highlighted the importance of enhancing connectivity, simplifying trade mechanisms, and strengthening institutional cooperation to boost bilateral and regional economic ties.

The fifth academic session of the conference, titled “Enhancing Economic Cooperation between India – Central Asia,” focused on strengthening trade, investment and economic partnerships between India and the Central Asian region. The session examined key sectors such as energy, trade facilitation, institutional collaboration and policy frameworks necessary to deepen economic engagement and ensure mutually beneficial growth.

Gulshat Yusupova, Rector, Institute of International Relations, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, discussed the economic priorities of Central Asian countries, particularly Turkmenistan, and emphasized the need for diversified economic partnerships. She highlighted opportunities for cooperation in education, trade and energy, while stressing the importance of policy coordination and regional stability.

Shri Raghvendra Singh, Deputy Secretary (CIS, EU-II), Foreign Trade (CIS Division), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, provided insights into India’s trade policy and initiatives aimed at enhancing economic engagement with Central Asia. He emphasized the role of trade agreements, export promotion strategies and institutional mechanisms in facilitating smoother economic interactions.

Kunwar Shekhar Vijendra, Chancellor, Shobhit University & Chairman of Assocham’s Committee, highlighted the role of academia and industry collaboration in fostering economic ties. He stressed the importance of skill development, innovation and educational exchanges in supporting long-term economic cooperation between India and Central Asia.

Dulal Halder, Director Operations OVL, ONGC, New Delhi, brought an industry perspective, focusing on energy cooperation and investment opportunities in the region. He discussed the role of Indian public sector enterprises in strengthening energy partnerships and highlighted the importance of sustainable and secure energy linkages.

Sanjay Pandey, Centre for Russian and Central Asian Studies, School of International Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi, highlighted the strategic importance of deepening India – Central Asia economic engagement through institutional mechanisms and regional cooperation frameworks. He emphasized the need to strengthen trade connectivity and policy coordination to overcome existing barriers.

Anil Sharma, Economist and Former Member of National Financial Reporting Authority, Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Government of India, examined evolving regional dynamics and their impact on economic ties. He highlighted shifts in trade patterns, energy cooperation and investment opportunities influenced by geopolitical changes. He emphasized the need for adaptive policies, improved connectivity, and regulatory stability to enhance India’s economic presence, while also underlining the importance of diversifying partnerships and strengthening institutional mechanisms for sustained engagement.

Zhulduz Baizakova, Senior Researcher, Institute for Security and Cooperation Studies, Department of International Relations, Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Almaty, Kazakhstan, highlighted the growing importance of integrated cooperation between India and Central Asia. She emphasized the interlinkages between connectivity, regional security, and sustainable development in shaping long-term partnerships. She discussed the role of multilateral platforms, infrastructure initiatives and policy coordination in strengthening ties, while stressing the need for balanced and inclusive approaches to address emerging geopolitical and economic challenges.

Swati Mehta, Coordinator, Centre for Central Asian Studies, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, discussed the role of innovation-driven growth in strengthening economic ties. She emphasized the importance of research collaboration, technology transfer and capacity-building between India and Central Asia. She argued that fostering innovation ecosystems and promoting South–South cooperation can enhance sustainable development, diversify economies and create new opportunities for long-term partnership in emerging sectors.

Session # 6: India – Central Asia: Historical and Cultural Ties

The fifth session was chaired by Amb Skand R Tayal, former ambassador of India to Uzbekistan and currently Member of the MERI Centre for International Studies, who highlighted the enduring civilizational linkages between India and Central Asia and their relevance in contemporary diplomacy.

Ms Nazira Aaly Kyzy, President, National Academy of “Manas”, Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic and Dr Gulzat Maichinova, Director of the Centre of International Relations and Communications, National Academy of “Manas”, Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic, emphasized the significance of the Manas epic as a symbol of shared cultural heritage. They emphasized its role in fostering civilizational dialogue, strengthening people-to-people ties, and promoting cultural diplomacy, thereby enhancing mutual understanding and cooperation between India and Central Asia in the contemporary global context.

Manish Dabhade, Associate Professor, CIPOD, School of International Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University and Director, the Indian Futures, argued that India’s engagement with Central Asia is moving beyond historical and cultural linkages toward a more structured and strategic framework. He highlighted emerging diplomatic initiatives, institutional mechanisms and policy innovations aimed at strengthening political, economic and security ties. He emphasized the need for a pragmatic, forward-looking approach that integrates connectivity, regional cooperation and strategic partnerships in a multipolar context.

Sunita Dwivedi, Author and Traveler along Central Asian Silk Road and Former Director, India Central Asia Foundation (ICAF), New Delhi, shared her experiential insights from extensive travels across Central Asia. She highlighted the rich Buddhist heritage of the Oxus Valley, emphasising ancient sites, cultural exchanges and historical linkages with India. Through a narrative approach, she illustrated how these sites reflect enduring civilizational connections and underscored their relevance in promoting cultural diplomacy, heritage preservation and deeper people-to-people engagement between India and Central Asia.

Preeti Das, Chairperson, Centre for Russian and Central Asian Studies, School of International Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, examined the long-standing trade networks that connected the two regions. She highlighted the movement of traders along ancient routes, including the Silk Road and their role in facilitating economic exchange and cultural interaction. She emphasized how these historical linkages continue to inform present-day connectivity initiatives and can serve as a foundation for strengthening contemporary India–Central Asia relations.

Mukesh Bagoria, Delhi College of Arts and Commerce, University of Delhi, examined the evolving nature of bilateral and regional engagement in a shifting global context. He highlighted the growing strategic, economic and cultural importance of Central Asia for India, emphasising the need for a balanced and proactive policy approach. He underscored the role of multipolarity in creating new opportunities for cooperation while also presenting challenges that require adaptive and sustained engagement.

Session # 7: Concluding Session

The Concluding Session of the conference was chaired by Prof (Dr) Ramakant Dwivedi, Director, ICAF and Head, MERI Centre for International Studies, New Delhi, who reflected on the key themes and outcomes of the deliberations and emphasised the importance of sustained engagement between India and Central Asia.

Pushkar Misra, Director, Rampur Raza Library & Museum, Ministry of Culture, Government of India, highlighted the significance of cultural heritage and knowledge institutions in strengthening India–Central Asia relations. He underscored the role of historical archives and cultural diplomacy in deepening mutual understanding.

Lalit Aggarwal, Vice-President, MERI Group of Institutions, New Delhi, emphasised the importance of academic collaboration, research initiatives and institutional partnerships in advancing the objectives of the conference. He also highlighted MERI’s role in fostering international academic dialogue.

Kuralay Baizakova, Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Almaty, Kazakhstan, reiterated the need for sustained regional cooperation and highlighted the importance of academic and policy exchanges in addressing contemporary challenges.

Amb Irina Orolbaeva, Former Ambassador of Kyrgyz Republic to India, Bishkek, emphasised the importance of diplomatic engagement and people-to-people connections in strengthening ties between India and Central Asia.

Abdusamat Khaydarov, Director, Diplomatic Academy, University of World Economy and Diplomacy (DA-UWED), Tashkent, Uzbekistan, highlighted the role of education, diplomacy and regional cooperation in shaping future partnerships and stressed the need for continued dialogue and collaboration.

The session also included remarks from participants, reflecting on the insights gained and the importance of such platforms in fostering meaningful engagement. The conference concluded with a comprehensive summing-up by Amb Gitesh A. Sarma, who encapsulated the key discussions and reiterated the need for strengthening India–Central Asia cooperation across strategic, economic, and cultural domains.