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&nbsp;

Recent months have witnessed a surge of diplomatic engagement across the Caspian region. Notably, the European Union&ndash;Central Asia Summit held in Samarkand underscored this momentum, with the EU committing approximately $13.2 billion to enhance regional infrastructure. Coupled with intensified dialogue in the South Caucasus, these developments have created significant opportunities for deeper cooperation. At the same time, growing global interest in the region&rsquo;s substantial critical mineral resources has elevated its strategic importance on the geopolitical stage.

The Caspian Policy Center is proud to host leading experts from the region and covering the region to unpack recent developments and discuss what concrete steps key outside actors such as the United States can take to help deepen further engagement with the region.&nbsp;This expert panel will explore opportunities for enhanced collaboration between the Caspian region and the United States, examine prospects for greater regional cooperation, and assess the broader implications of these evolving dynamics for the region&rsquo;s future. &nbsp;

&nbsp;

10:00 am &ndash; 10:05 am

&nbsp;

Opening Remarks

&nbsp;

Efgan Nifti, Chief Executive Officer, Caspian Policy Center

&nbsp;

10:05 am &ndash; 11:30 am

&nbsp;

Moderated Discussion and Q&amp;A

&nbsp;

<cite>Moderated by Dr. Eric Rudenshiold, Senior Fellow, Caspian Policy Center</cite>

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Amb. Alim Bayel, Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Azerbaijan</li>
	<li>Dr. Fariz Ismailzade, Member of Parliament and Vice Rector, Azerbaijan Diplomatic Academy (ADA)&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Amb. Matthew Klimow, Advisory Board Member, Caspian Policy Center, Former Ambassador of the United States to Turkmenistan</li>
	<li>James Sharp, Advisory Board Member, Caspian Policy Center, Former Ambassador of the United Kingdom to Azerbaijan&nbsp;and Kazakhstan</li>
	<li>Amb. Javlon Vakhabov, Managing Director, International Institute for Central Asia, Former Ambassador of Uzbekistan to the United States&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Trans-Caspian Voices: Infrastructure, Minerals, and Diplomacy in Focus

Uzbekistan sits along the intersection of historical trade routes connecting the East with the West and the North with the South. Today, its strategic location places Uzbekistan at the heart of the evolving Trans-Caspian corridor&mdash;an increasingly vital trade and transit route, the full potential of which is yet to be maximized. To explore this potential, the Caspian Policy Center is proud to host Ambassador Javlon Vakhabov, Managing Director of the International Institute for Central Asia in Uzbekistan, for an in-person discussion on the strategic importance of Uzbekistan&rsquo;s role in the Trans-Caspian Region. The parties will exchange perspectives and engage in discussions on Uzbekistan&rsquo;s evolving approach to trade and transit&mdash;both toward the South and across the North and West via the Caspian&mdash;as well as the country&rsquo;s broader efforts to enhance regional connectivity in Central Asia.

&nbsp;

10:00 &ndash; 10:05

Welcome Remarks

<ul>
	<li>Efgan Nifti, CEO, Caspian Policy Center (CPC)</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

10:05 &ndash; 11:30

Moderated Discussion

Moderator: Ambassador Richard E. Hoagland (ret.), Board Member, CPC

<ul>
	<li>Eric Rudenshiold, Senior Fellow, CPC</li>
	<li>Javlon Vakhabov, Managing Director, International Institute for Central Asia (IICA)</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

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Uzbekistan’s Strategic Role in Strengthening Regional Connectivity

<img alt="" src="https://api.caspianpolicy.org/media/ckeditor_media/2025/02/05/strategic-minerakls.png" />

&nbsp;

The United States faces a significant strategic challenge in securing access to rare earth elements and critical minerals essential for economic vitality and national security. China&rsquo;s dominance in critical minerals markets, and its control over supply chains through protectionist policies or disruptions pose a direct challenge to U.S. industries reliant on these resources. To mitigate risks and diversify supply sources, the U.S. is increasingly looking to regions like the Caucasus, Central Asia, and Ukraine, which offer abundant reserves, favorable transport and logistics, as well as a strong interest in collaboration with the U.S.

&nbsp;

The Caspian Policy Center will host a panel discussion on the critical mineral potential of the Caspian region. In this expert panel, speakers will address areas of opportunity for cooperation between the United States and the Caspian countries in securing strategic minerals, as well as in diversifying supply chains away from China. Additionally, CPC will present is research report, entitled &ldquo;A Guide for Policymakers: How to Meet U.S. Strategic Mineral Needs.&rdquo; These discussions will also explore policy recommendations for new U.S. administration for safeguarding strategic minerals industries in Central Asia, South Caucasus, and Ukraine that underpin U.S. economic and national security interests.

&nbsp;

<h2>AGENDA</h2>

&nbsp;

10:00 am &ndash; 10:05 am

&nbsp;

Opening Remarks&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Efgan Nifti, Chief Executive Officer, Caspian Policy Center</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

10:05 am &ndash; 11:30 am

&nbsp;

Moderated Discussion and Q&amp;A

Moderated by Ambassador (ret.) Richard E. Hoagland, Board Member, Caspian Policy Center

<ul>
	<li>Eric Rudenshiold, Senior Fellow, Caspian Policy Center</li>
	<li>Ariel Cohen, Managing Director, Energy, Growth &amp; Security, International Tax and Investment Center (ITIC)</li>
	<li>Pini Althaus, Managing Partner, Cove Capital LLC</li>
	<li>Reed Blakemore, Director of Research and Programs, Global Energy Center, Atlantic Council</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

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What Rocks to Look Under: How to Meet U.S. Strategic Mineral Needs in the Trans-Caspian Corridor

The Caspian Policy Center is proud to host Ambassador (ret.) Matthew Klimow, the former Ambassador of the United States to Turkmenistan, for a discussion on political and economic developments in Turkmenistan and the Caspian region. This is the fourth installment of CPC&rsquo;s Ambassadorial interview series. This in-person conversation will be held on Wednesday,&nbsp;January 29, 10:00 am &ndash; 11:30 am&nbsp;at CPC&rsquo;s Washington DC office on the&nbsp;11th floor.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

After maintaining a history of neutrality and economic isolation, Turkmenistan has been increasingly involved in both regional and global initiatives, especially in regard to diversifying its energy exports. This interview, as part of a broader CPC series, will take the opportunity to learn from the Ambassador and learn his perspective on the future of Turkmenistan, the region, and recent developments.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Matthew Klimow was the U.S. Ambassador to Turkmenistan from 2019 to 2024. From 2018 to 2019, he served as Senior Advisor in the Office of the Under Secretary for Management at the&nbsp;United States Department of State. Prior to that, Klimow served as a Deputy Assistant Secretary General of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) in&nbsp;Brussels, Belgium from 2012 to 2015.

&nbsp;

10:00 am &ndash; 10:05 am

Opening Remarks

<ul>
	<li>Efgan Nifti, Chief Executive Officer, Caspian Policy Center</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

10:05 am &ndash; 11:30 am

&nbsp;

Moderated Discussion and Q&amp;A with Ambassador (ret.) Matthew Klimow

<ul>
	<li>Introduction by Ambassador (ret.) Richard E. Hoagland, Board Chairman of the Caspian Policy Center</li>
	<li>Moderated by Dr. Eric Rudenshiold, Research Director and Senior Fellow of the Caspian Policy Center</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

<h2>Registration is closed.</h2>

Discussion with Ambassador (ret.) Matthew Klimow, Former Ambassador of the United States to Turkmenistan

&nbsp;

<img alt="" src="https://api.caspianpolicy.org/media/ckeditor_media/2025/01/03/new-us-strategy-for-caucasus-and-central-asia.png" />

&nbsp;

Significant changes have transformed Central Asia and the Caucasus since Donald Trump last served as President. These include the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, Russia&rsquo;s second invasion of Ukraine, and, most notably, a recent surge in inter-regional cooperation. While the 45th U.S. President was familiar with Central Asia, a revitalized and strategic approach is now essential to reinvigorate the momentum of past engagements and to take advantage of new opportunities. Such an approach would advance U.S. interests in the rapidly evolving Trans-Caspian region, which bridges the Caucasus and Central Asia and serves as a critical nexus connecting Asia, Europe, and the Global South.

&nbsp;

CPC&rsquo;s Senior Fellow Dr. Eric Rudenshiold will present his policy paper entitled,&nbsp; A Trans-Caspian Trajectory: A New U.S. Strategy for Central Asia and the Caucasus.&nbsp; An expert panel will address areas of opportunity for the United States in the Caucasus and Central Asia regions, recent developments, potential challenges to enhancing cooperation, and the regional implications of increased United States engagement. Discussions will explore policy recommendations for the incoming U.S. administration.&nbsp; 
 
AGENDA

&nbsp;

10:00 am &ndash; 10:05 am

Opening Remarks

<ul>
	<li>Efgan Nifti, Chief Executive Officer, Caspian Policy Center</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

10:05 am &ndash; 10:20 am

A New Trans-Caspian, U.S. Strategy for Central Asia and the Caucasus

<ul>
	<li>Eric Rudenshiold, Senior Fellow, Caspian Policy Center</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

10:20 am &ndash; 11:30 am

Future U.S. Policy in Central Asia and the Caucasus

Moderated Discussion and Q&amp;A

<ul>
	<li>Ambassador (ret.) Richard E. Hoagland, Moderator, Board Chairman of the Caspian Policy Center</li>
	<li>Daniel Runde, Senior Vice President and Director of the Project on Prosperity and Development, Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS)</li>
	<li>Luke Coffey, Senior Fellow, The Hudson Institute</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

A Trans-Caspian Trajectory:  A New U.S. Strategy for Central Asia and the Caucasus

<img alt="" src="https://api.caspianpolicy.org/media/ckeditor_media/2024/11/14/iss070e075895_lrg-min-1.png" />

&nbsp;

Despite rapid responses by the EU and Britain to the energy crisis sparked by Russia&rsquo;s invasion of Ukraine, Europe will continue to face some stark energy security challenges in 2025. The risks are both technical and geopolitical, and consistency of supply cannot be taken for granted. The UK Government and the International EnergyAgency (IEA) will host an international Future of Energy Security Summit in London on 24-25 April 2025. Its aim is to assess evolving energy security challenges and consider novel approaches and actions to tackle them. This CPC event is timely preparation and will feed into a similar CPC event in Washington in February.&nbsp;

Caspian countries continue to contribute to Europe&rsquo;s energy security while facing their own climate and geopolitical challenges. For the first time a COP Climate Summit is taking place in the Region. The CPC event will bring together prominent voices from the UK Government, Caspian countries and energy and climate experts to discuss what COP29 outcomes mean for the&nbsp;Region.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<h2>Agenda</h2>

08:30&nbsp; &ndash; 09:00&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Registration and Coffee&nbsp;

&nbsp;

09:00 &ndash; 09:10&nbsp;

Opening Remarks&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Efgan Nifti, President, Caspian Policy Center&nbsp;</li>
	<li>David Moran, Senior UK Adviser, Caspian Policy Center &nbsp;</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

09:15 &ndash; 09:25&nbsp; &nbsp;

Keynote Remarks (HMG Speaker tbc)

&nbsp;

09:30 &ndash; 10:00&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Ambassadorial Panel

Moderated by David Moran, Caspian Policy Center

&nbsp;

Session 1 &ndash; Energy Security Challenges &amp; Strategic Co-operation &nbsp;

The hard work of Europe including the UK to increase energy efficiency, speed the transition towards renewables and diversify sources enabled countries to cope with the last two relatively mild winters. The EU was able to meet its supply targets early: gas-storage facilities are nearly full. But 2025 could bring new difficulties. A colder winter is overdue and the implications of the likely end to Russia&rsquo;s gas deal to Central Europe via Ukraine are not clear. Gas stocks could decline quite swiftly. Demand for LNG will grow in both Europe and Asia. This panel will look at global, European and Caspian security prospects and discuss how the UK, the EU and the Caspian Region can map a sustainable path forward, areas of investment opportunities. How can countries meet short-to-medium term energy needs while getting Net Zero and global 1.5 degrees targets back on track?

&nbsp;

10:00 &ndash; 11:00&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Panel 1 Moderated Discussion&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Nicolas Ray, First Secretary Competition and Energy, EU Delegation to the UK</li>
	<li>John Roberts, Energy Security Specialist, Methinks Ltd</li>
	<li>Angus Miller, Chairman of TelosNRG</li>
	<li>Further Speaker tbc</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

11:00 &ndash; 11:15&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Coffee Break&nbsp;

 
11:15 &ndash; 11:45&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;Ambassadorial Panel (Cont.)&nbsp;

Moderated by David Moran, Caspian Policy Center

&nbsp;

Session 2 &ndash; COP29 Outcomes: Implications for the Caspian Region and the World &nbsp;

UK Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero Ed Miliband recently said &ldquo;In an unstable world, the only way to guarantee our energy security and protect against volatile energy price spikes is to speed up the transition away from fossil fuels to clean, homegrown energy.&rdquo; How much did Baku commitments move that transition along? Did COP29 make sufficient progress on mitigation, adaptation, inclusion and finance &ndash; in particular, the negotiations on the New Collective Quantified Goal? &nbsp;

Caspian countries suffer severely from the impact of climate change. Individually and collectively, they face a range of extreme weather events and water and food security challenges not helped by a complex regional and global geopolitical context. In recent years regional collaboration has grown rapidly but Caspian countries need more money and investment &ndash; public and private. COP29 put the Azerbaijani Presidency and the rest of the region in the spotlight &ndash; a rare opportunity to publicise their challenges, needs, achievements and potential. How did Central Asian and South Caucasus assess COP29 outcomes on the quantity and quality of climate finance, support for adaptation and just energy transitions and preparation of new Nationally Determined Contributions? Did international partners and the countries themselves make the most of the opportunity? What can they do now before Azerbaijan hands over the Presidency to Brazil at COP30?&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;11:45 &ndash; 12:45&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Panel 2 Moderated Discussion&nbsp; &nbsp;

Moderated by David Moran, Caspian Policy Center

<ul>
	<li>Dr Joanna Depledge, Research Fellow, Cambridge Centre for Environment&nbsp;</li>
	<li>John Carstensen, Fellow and Climate Resilience Lead, Mott MacDonald</li>
	<li>Alexandra Barnes, Director Infrastructure, Climate and Nature, British Expertise International&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Further Speaker tbc</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

12:45 &ndash; 12:55&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Closing Remarks&nbsp;

13:00 &ndash; 14:00&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Lunch&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<h3>4 December 2024, 9:00 &ndash; 13:00 &nbsp;</h3>

<h3>Arundel House, 6 Temple Place, London WC2R 2PG &nbsp;</h3>

&nbsp;

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Caspian Policy Center Energy Security and Post-COP29 Conference

The Caspian Policy Center (CPC), in conjunction with Tethys: Trans-Eurasian Gateway, collaborated on a round table on &ldquo;Mining, Infrastructure Projects and Finance in T&uuml;rkiye and Middle Corridor Countries&rdquo; held in Istanbul on 27 September.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The aim of the roundtable was to explore the opportunities for investment in critical minerals in the region, while teasing out the interlinkages and barriers, explained Leyla Keser-Berber, Chairwoman of Tethys: Trans-Eurasian Gateway. What infrastructure was needed? What were the issues around financing? Were Western governments sufficiently engaged?&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The strategic stars are aligning, noted CPC Advisory Board Member James Sharp, who emphasized that geopolitical tensions, security concerns, and the fight against climate change had - perhaps belatedly - made the West realize that China dominates the production and processing of critical minerals. The growing focus on the Middle Corridor was providing an opportunity for the countries of the region to expand their export routes away from China and Russia. Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan in particular, he explained, were keen to diversify their economies away from oil and gas. T&uuml;rkiye itself has an important role to play, Sharp added, including by having joined the Minerals Security Partnership, as well as by its strong links with regional countries.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Bernd Schaefer (CEO of EIT RawMaterials) reflected on the recent adoption of the EU&rsquo;s Critical Raw Materials Act as a key piece of legislation and a signal of EU intent, noting that EIT RawMaterials had been mandated by the European Commission to manage the European Raw Materials Alliance (ERMA). He and other speakers emphasized the need to train and deploy enough new talented miners in the short term.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

A key component of Turkiye&rsquo;s investment policy on energy and natural resources is in rare earth elements and critical minerals, explained Turkish Deputy Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Ahmed Berat &Ccedil;onkar. Turkiye has identified the world&rsquo;s second largest reserves at Eskişehir.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

During discussion in the Mining and Finance session, participants emphasized the strategic importance of securing key raw materials and developing reliable regional supply chains. Western governments are aware of the urgency, signing MOUs on collaboration with countries in the region. However, not all had yet come up with comprehensive strategies that would prioritize and drive action.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The announcement earlier in the week in New York about the establishment by the Minerals Security Partnership of a finance network was welcomed; although, in general, there was a sense that finance was slow in coming. Some speakers wondered whether governments were doing enough to stimulate investment in mining projects, including through more guarantees. EBRD explained what they were doing and the tests they ran to decide whether public financing was appropriate. At the same time, miners recognized that the constant cost overruns on projects made financiers wary.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;

There was plenty of talk about responsible mining practices. On 11 September, the UN had published a document setting out a list of principles &quot;to guide critical energy transition minerals towards equity and justice&quot;. Speakers recognized that the mining sector had reputational problems and that engagement and education were key - they had not talked enough to stakeholders. Some had concerns that holding Western companies to very high standards risked opening the door to companies from countries less concerned about the environment; the counterargument offered was that the ESG commitments made by Western manufacturers were actually driving up standards worldwide.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The session on sustainable infrastructure in the Middle Corridor raised the question of whether the location of infrastructure would drive mining investments, or vice versa. The discussion provided an opportunity to explain the Corridor&#39;s current state and the growing momentum behind it and to point to some of the synergies with the mining sector&#39;s work. The Azerbaijani trade representative gave a comprehensive overview of achievements, bottlenecks, and growing regional collaboration to iron out tariff practices. CPC Advisory Board Member David Moran talked about improving Georgia&rsquo;s Poti port and the need to prioritize work on key bottlenecks.  It would also be important to ensure that the Middle Corridor was green.&nbsp; The forthcoming COP29 in Baku was an opportunity to give this impetus, as well as to showcase the region&rsquo;s achievements, potential, and challenges.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

While there were no formal conclusions, the overall sense was that:&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>
	Much of the infrastructure will be built as a public policy priority, while there was less certainty about investment in mining projects.&nbsp;
	</li>
</ul>

<ul>
	<li>
	Although Western governments were improving their coordination and financing, there was still a risk that the opportunities in the region would be dominated by Chinese and Russian state-backed companies. For the West, the cost of supporting these mining projects needed to be balanced against the price of not doing so.&nbsp;
	</li>
</ul>

<ul>
	<li>
	Given the number of moving parts and interlinkages, it was important to continue this dialogue among miners, financiers, infrastructure specialists, and governments.&nbsp;&nbsp;
	</li>
</ul>

Istanbul Roundtable on Mining, Infrastructure, and Financing

`<img alt="" src="https://api.caspianpolicy.org/media/ckeditor_media/2024/08/28/cpc-caspian-business-forum-5.png" />

<h2 style="text-align:center">&nbsp;</h2>

<h2 style="text-align:center">&nbsp;</h2>

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&nbsp;

&nbsp;

September 24, 2024

The Harvard Club in New York City&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The Caspian Policy Center is proud to host this annual event bringing together the best minds in business, government, and non-profits to discuss new business and energy challenges and opportunities for the Caspian region. The forum will bring together policymakers, business leaders, and members of the academic community at the Harvard Club to discuss the emerging business and energy landscape across the South Caucasus and Central Asia, with a focus on growing regional connectivity and the emerging COP 29 agenda.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the United States and the countries of the Caspian region, the partnership between the countries has grown to include cooperation across multiple sectors of en- gagement. In the last several years, there has been significant growth in relations and trade connectivity be- tween the countries of the Caucasus and Central Asia and with the world. As the region hosts COP 29, there is similar energy to address regional and global climate concerns.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

International business has proved vital in promoting and facilitating cooperation as new global supply lines are developed across the region. To discuss the current and future of business ties between global stakeholders and the Caspian region, the Caspian Policy Center has invited senior business and government leaders with experience in the region&rsquo;s unique energy, climate and trade environment to discuss what opportunities exist for the year ahead.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<h1>AGENDA</h1>

&nbsp;

<h2>5:00 PM &ndash; 6:00 PM &ndash; Registration and Cocktail Reception&nbsp;</h2>

&nbsp;

6:00 &ndash; 6:05&nbsp;&nbsp;&ndash;&nbsp;Welcome Remarks

<ul>
	<li>Efgan Nifti, CEO, Caspian Policy Center</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

6:05 &ndash; 6:35&nbsp; &nbsp;&ndash;&nbsp;&nbsp;Keynote Remarks

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Geoffrey Pyatt, Assistant Secretary of State for Energy Resources, U.S. Department of State</li>
	<li>Helaina Matza, Acting Special Coordinator, Office of the U.S. Special Coordinator for the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment (PGI)</li>
	<li>Ambassador Kubanychbek Omuraliev, Secretary-General, Organization of Turkic States (OTS</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

6:35 &ndash; 7:15&nbsp; &ndash;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Regional Ministerial Keynote Addresses&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Moderator: Ambassador (ret.) Richard E. Hoagland, Senior Fellow, Caspian Policy Center

<ul>
	<li>Elnur Mammadov, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Azerbaijan</li>
	<li>Lasha Darsalia, First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Georgia</li>
	<li>Zulfiya Suleimenova, Advisor to the President and Special Representative of the President on International Environmental Cooperation, Kazakhstan&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Berris Ekinci, Deputy Minister of ForeignAffairs, T&uuml;rkiye</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

7:15&nbsp;&ndash; 7:35&nbsp; &ndash;&nbsp;&nbsp;Networking break

&nbsp;

7:35 &ndash; 8:35&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Panel Discussion: Sustainable Connectivity and Investment

&nbsp;

Moderator: Dr. Marsha McGraw-Olive, Advisory Board Member, Caspian Policy Center

<ul>
	<li>Anjali Kaur, Deputy Assistant Administrator, Bureau for Asia, U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID)</li>
	<li>Robert Scher, Head of International Affairs, BP America&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Senior Representative, Wabtec Corporation&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Dr. Taleh Ziyadov, Director-General, Baku International Sea Trade Port</li>
	<li>
	Gabidulla Ospankulov, Chairman of the Investment Committee of the Kazakh Ministry of Foreign Affairs&nbsp;
	</li>
	<li>
	Orkhan Mammadov, Chairman of the Management Board, Small and Medium Business Development Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan&nbsp;
	</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

8:35 &ndash; 8:45&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Closing Remarks

<ul>
	<li>Ambassador (ret.) Richard E. Hoagland, Chairman of the Board, Caspian Policy Center</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

<h2><a class="magazine_detail_read_button" href="https://caspianpolicy.org/research/press-releases/caspian-policy-center-hosts-5th-annual-business-forum-in-new-york">READ PRESS RELEASE</a></h2>

5th Caspian Business Forum: Building a sustainable future in the Caspian through connectivity and climate action

<img alt="" src="https://api.caspianpolicy.org/media/ckeditor_media/2024/08/27/what-is-next-increasing-regional-partnership-in-the-caucasus-and-central-asia-.png" />

&nbsp;

Historic developments and openings are changing the Caucasus and Central Asia regions. From the pandemic to Russia&rsquo;s invasion of Ukraine, from the development of a Middle Corridor for trade and transit to remarkable increases in foreign direct investment, the greater Caspian region is increasingly a nexus of greatly increased interest and engagement. Leaders from the five Central Asian states and Azerbaijan recently convened in Astana, Kazakhstan, for the Consultative Meetings, reaffirming their commitment to enhancing regional collaboration and integration. But where do the countries of the region see themselves headed? What is driving the intra-regional shifts and cooperation? Where will inter-regional cooperation go next?

&nbsp;

This virtual event is intended to bring together regional experts and thinkers to discuss the significant growth in economic, political, and security cooperation within the countries of the Caucasus and Central Asia, as well as to look at areas of opportunity for next-level cooperation between the greater Caspian region and beyond. Building on a growing base of intraregional partnership, are there better opportunities to reach east to China, south to South Asia, and west to T&uuml;rkiye, Europe and the United States, now that Russia is distracted in Ukraine? What are the next steps?

&nbsp;

The Caspian Policy Center is proud to host leading regional experts to address these questions and discuss what are the prospects for the continued evolution of this rapidly changing region.

&nbsp;

9:30 &ndash; 11:00&nbsp;&nbsp;Moderated Discussion

Moderator: Ambassador Richard E. Hoagland (ret.), Board Member, Caspian Policy Center (CPC)

<ul>
	<li>Eric Rudenshiold, Senior Fellow, CPC</li>
	<li>Javlon Vakhabov, Managing Director, International Institute for Central Asia&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Farid Shafiyev, Chairman, Center of Analysis for International Relations&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Yerkin Tukumov, Director, Kazakhstan Institute for Strategic Studies</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

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What Is Next? Increasing Regional Partnership in the Caucasus and Central Asia

<h3 style="text-align:center">&nbsp;</h3>

<h3 style="text-align:center">Arundel House, 6 Temple Place, London WC2R 2PG&nbsp;</h3>

&nbsp;

The Middle Corridor&rsquo;s network of routes crossing Central Asia, the Caspian Sea, the South Caucasus, and T&uuml;rkiye, constitutes a multimodal transport corridor that combines road, rail and sea transportation. It represents the shortest path for goods traded from China to Europe, thousands of kilometres less than the northern route through Russia. It also provides an alternative to the Red Sea route. Transit times are shortening but will have to be more consistent.&nbsp; This requires targeted investment, expertise, and effective governance that removes bottlenecks and smooth progress. The Region &ndash; particularly Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and T&uuml;rkiye &ndash; will have to collaborate closely with each other and international partners to make the most of the Middle Corridor&rsquo;s potential commercial and socioeconomic benefits. Infrastructure improvements must be efficient, sustainable and developmentally sound from the start. This Conference will look at how to co-ordinate, prioritise and do business effectively across the&nbsp;Corridor.

&nbsp;

08:30&nbsp; &ndash; 09:00&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Registration and Coffee

&nbsp;

09:00 &ndash; 09:05&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Opening Remarks

<ul>
	<li>Efgan Nifti,&nbsp;President, Caspian Policy Center</li>
	<li>David Moran, UK Adviser, Caspian Policy Center (including COP29)</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

09:10 &ndash; 09:30&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Keynote Remarks&nbsp;

&nbsp;

09:30 &ndash; 10:00&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Ambassadorial Panel

Moderated by David Moran, Caspian Policy Center

<ul>
	<li>Elin Suleymanov, Ambassador of Kazakhstan to the UK &middot;</li>
	<li>Sofio Katsarava, Ambassador of Kazakhstan to the UK &middot;</li>
	<li>Magzhan Ilyassov, Ambassador of Kazakhstan to the UK &middot;</li>
	<li>Osman Koray Ertaş, Ambassaor of T&uuml;rkiye to the UK</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

Session 1 &ndash; Maximising Development Impact: Prioritisation &amp; Coordination

10:00&nbsp; - 11:00&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The European Union and the EBRD have been pivotal in 2023-24 in injecting momentum into Middle Corridor planning. At part of the EU&rsquo;s Global Gateway trade network, European and international donors announced in January of this year an intention to commit 10 billion euros to support Middle Corridor connectivity between Europe and Central Asia.&nbsp; The money will be used for a wide range of projects, paralleling World Bank and other donor efforts.&nbsp;The UK and US have been active supporters of the process. What kinds of developmental coordination and prioritisation mechanisms would seem opportune, to focus investment resources and ensure appropriate planning?

&nbsp;

10:00 &ndash; 11:00&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Panel 1 Moderated Discussion

Moderated by Dr Marsha McGraw Olive, Member of CPC Advisory Board and Johns Hopkins SAIS Faculty

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Ekaterina Miroshnik, Director, Head of Infrastructure-Eurasia Team, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD)</li>
	<li>Gaidar Abdikerimov - Secretary General, Team of International Association &ldquo;Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (online)</li>
	<li>Sophie Ibbotson, Development Consultant, World Bank &middot;</li>
	<li>Sean Burnage, Regional Head, Origination and Client Coverage, UK Export Finance &middot;</li>
	<li>Alexander Milne, Head, Eurasia, Middle East and Africa, TheCityUK</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

11:00 &ndash; 11:15&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Coffee Break

&nbsp;

11:14 &ndash; 11:45&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Ambassadorial Panel (Cont.)

Moderated by David Moran, Caspian Policy Center

<ul>
	<li>Varuzhan Nersesyan, Ambassador of Armenia to the UK&nbsp; (tbc)</li>
	<li>Ulan Djusupov, Ambassador of the Kyrgyz Republic to the UK&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Rukhshona Emomali, Ambassador of Tajikistan to the UK&nbsp;(tbc)</li>
	<li>Yazmurad Seryayev, Ambassador of Turkmenistan to the UK&nbsp;(tbc)</li>
	<li>Ravshan Usmanov, Ambassador of Uzbekistan to the UK</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

Session 2 &ndash; How to Do Business Better Along the Middle Corridor

11:45 - 12:45

&nbsp;

Though infrastructure gaps and challenges inhibit the Middle Corridor&rsquo;s potential, some business is doing well.&nbsp; Business, finance and energy experts discuss what works and what can work better in the Caspian region. &nbsp; What steps can be taken to address institutionalised impediments to doing business in the Caspian region?&nbsp; What has the creation of the Middle Corridor meant for international business? Are there low-hanging fruits to improve business capabilities?

&nbsp;

11:45 &ndash; 12:45&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Panel 2 Moderated Discussion

Moderated by Dr Roger Kangas, Professor of Central Asian Studies, Near East South Asia Center for Strategic Studies&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Marco Forgione, Director General, Institute of Export and International Trade</li>
	<li>John Patterson OBE, Chairperson, British Chamber of Commerce Azerbaijan&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Michael Denison, Senior International Adviser, BP</li>
	<li>Charles Hendry, UK Minister of State for Energy and Climate Change 2010-12</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

12:45 &ndash; 12:55&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Closing Remarks

&nbsp;

13:00 &ndash; 14:00&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Lunch

&nbsp;

Location:&nbsp; Arundel House, 6 Temple Place, London WC2R 2PG&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<a class="magazine_detail_read_button" href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/caspian-middle-corridor-conference-tickets-910800979247?aff=oddtdtcreator">Register</a>

Caspian Middle Corridor Conference

<img alt="" src="https://api.caspianpolicy.org/media/ckeditor_media/2024/05/29/investment-screening-in-central-asia.png" />

&nbsp;

On June 6, the Caspian Policy Center (CPC) and the Center for International Private Enterprise (CIPE) hosted a joint online webinar on &ldquo;Investment Screening in Central Asia,&rdquo; a recently published report by Roman Vakulchuk and Farrukh Irnazarov, co-founders of the Central Asia Development Institute.&nbsp; &nbsp;

&nbsp;

Eric Hontz, Director of CIPE&#39;s Center for Accountable Investment, observed that the report is very timely for Central Asian states that are actively seeking new foreign investment in line with multi-vector foreign policies, but want to avoid potential risks of economic coercion from dependency on any given investor.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The discussion, moderated by CPC board member Dr. Marsha McGraw Olive, focused on screening mechanisms and existing practices aimed at regulating incoming investment in four countries of Central Asia: Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.&nbsp; The authors presented a dynamic picture of how domestic decisions on foreign direct investment (FDI) intersected with a range of global initiatives such as BRI, CAREC, the EAEU, the EU&rsquo;s Global Gateway, various C5+1 initiatives, and even sanctions.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Sarah Bauerle Danzman, Visiting Scholar at the Atlantic Council and Associate Professor of International Studies at Indiana University Bloomington, said the report broke new ground by devising a typology that fits the local context in countries where Western screening practices are not necessarily feasible or relevant to the nature of threats in OECD countries.&nbsp; It also contributes to the policy debate by raising awareness on the need to manage inward flows, including by leveraging local groups and associations to help monitor risks. &nbsp;

&nbsp;

Jennifer Miel, Vice President of the U.S Chamber of Commerce&rsquo;s Middle East, T&uuml;rkiye and Central Asia Affairs Department, noted that there is already a significant diversification of foreign partners and products in Central Asian economies.&nbsp; In addition to focusing on fundamentals in the business environment to help attract foreign investors, she supported a consultative mechanism for conventional screening to help avoid politicization of investments. &nbsp;

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&nbsp;

<iframe frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/U7oEoT8qd4s?si=0soiG8CWikqC0g33" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

&nbsp;

Investment Screening in Central Asia

The Caspian Policy Centre hosted a roundtable discussion with Director-General of the Baku International Sea and Trade Port, Taleh Ziyadov on May 28 in London. During the discussion, which was moderated by James Sharp, CPC Advisory Board Member, Ziyadov discussed the development of sustainable infrastructure across the Middle Corridor, regional connectivity, and the improvement of trans-Caspian infrastructure. The Middle Corridor holds great potential to become one of Europe&rsquo;s primary trade routes and sources of energy. The emerging trade route offers a resolution to sanction- compliance issues, access to new markets, and new opportunities for business-to- business (B2B) and business-to-government (B2G) engagements in logistics, transportation, and infrastructure construction. This discussion focused on the role the Port of Baku can play in building a more sustainable Middle Corridor. Ziyadov also noted the ways in which the Middle Corridor&rsquo;s e capacity and operational efficiency can be enhanced, focusing specifically on improving transport infrastructure and regional cooperation.

&nbsp;

<img alt="" src="https://api.caspianpolicy.org/media/ckeditor_media/2024/05/28/whatsapp-image-2024-05-28-at-195652_w2hQGP5.jpeg" />

&nbsp;

Roundtable Discussion: Enhancing Trans-Caspian connectivity through maritime infrastructure development and coordination

<h1><img alt="" src="https://api.caspianpolicy.org/media/ckeditor_media/2024/03/11/8th-tcf-middle-corridor.png" /></h1>

<h1>&nbsp;<a class="magazine_detail_read_button" href="https://caspianpolicy.org/research/press-releases/the-caspian-policy-center-hosts-its-8th-trans-caspian-forum-in-washington-dc">Press Release</a></h1>

&nbsp;

8:30 am- 9:00 am: Registration and breakfast

&nbsp;

Panel 1 &ndash; Building on the United States-Caspian Strategic Partnership&nbsp;&nbsp;

9:00 AM - 11:00 AM&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The Caspian Policy Center is delighted to host the 8th Annual Trans-Caspian Forum, in partnership with the Embassies of the Caspian Region, including the embassies of Azerbaijan, Armenia, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, T&uuml;rkiye, and Uzbekistan. In the last year, cooperation between the United States and countries of the greater Caspian Region has continued to grow. With the energy and security crises emerging from the Russia-Ukraine War, it has become clear just how important it is to nurture strategic engagement between the U.S. and the Caspian Region. The changing global paradigm has demonstrated a need for the United States to reevaluate its partnerships and assist countries in this crossroads region to secure their economic sovereignties through enhanced connectivity and increased trade. The United States and the Caspian region will need to develop and employ decisive and cooperative solutions to protect their national interests and collaborate with a diverse set of international partners.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

9:00 am &ndash; 9:05 am Opening Remarks&nbsp;

Efgan Nifti,&nbsp;President, Caspian Policy Center

&nbsp;

9:05 am &ndash; 9:45 am U.S. Keynote Remarks&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Arun Venkataraman, Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Global Markets, and Director General of the U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service Global Markets, U.S. Department of Commerce&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Ambassador John Mark Pommersheim, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Central Asia, U.S. Department of State</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

9:45 am &ndash; 11:00 am Caspian Keynote&nbsp;Addresses&nbsp;

Moderator: Ambassador (Ret.) Richard Hoagland, Chairman of the Board, Caspian Policy Center&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Senior Official, Armenia&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Ambassador Khazar Ibrahim, Azerbaijan&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Beka Chkheidze,&nbsp;Director of International Relations Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Georgia (Invited)</li>
	<li>Rauan Tleulin,&nbsp;Deputy Chief of Mission, Kazakhstan&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Ambassador Bakyt Amanbaev,&nbsp;Kyrgyz Republic</li>
	<li>Senior Official, Tajikistan&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Ambassador Sedat &Ouml;nal,&nbsp;T&uuml;rkiye&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Ambassador Meret Orazov, Turkmenistan (Invited)</li>
	<li>Ambassador Furqat Sidiqov,&nbsp;Uzbekistan</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

11:00 am &ndash; 11:15 am Coffee Break

&nbsp;

Panel 2 &ndash; Maximizing Development Impact: Prioritization &amp; Coordination&nbsp;

11:15 AM - 12:30 PM&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The Middle Corridor is a network of routes that cross Central Asia, the Caspian Sea, the South Caucasus and T&uuml;rkiye, constituting a multimodal transport corridor that combines road, rail, and sea transportation. It represents the shortest path for goods traded from China to Europe, 3,000km less than the northern route through Russia. As part of the EU&rsquo;s Global Gateway, European and international investors announced in January of this year an intention to commit $10.8 billion to support Middle corridor connectivity between Europe and Central Asia.&nbsp; The funds will be used in support of a wide range of projects, paralleling World Bank and other related efforts, to tackle hard and soft infrastructure needs.&nbsp; How are governments and international financial institutions planning to coordinate and prioritize the multi-faceted investments and policies needed to create an efficient, cutting-edge transport corridor?

&nbsp;

11:15 am &ndash; 12:30 pm Panel Discussion&nbsp;

Moderator: Dr. Marsha McGraw Olive, Caspian Policy Center Board Member&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Ambassador Erin McKee, Assistant Administrator, Europe and Eurasia Bureau, United States Agency for International Development (USAID)&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Henrik Hololei, Hors Classe Adviser, Directorate-General for International Partnerships, European Commission</li>
	<li>Tamar Satterwhite, Senior Attorney,&nbsp;Commercial Law Development Program(CLDP), Office of the General Counsel, U.S. Department of Commerce</li>
	<li>Winnie Wang, Lead Infrastructure Specialist and Program Leader, Europe and Central Asia, World Bank</li>
	<li>Agnes Dasewicz, Chief Operating Officer, DFC (Invited)</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

12:30&nbsp;pm &ndash; 01:30 pm Lunch

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Panel 3 &ndash; How to Do Business Better Along the Middle Corridor:&nbsp;

Experts Discuss Needs and Opportunities&nbsp;

1:30 PM - 2:30 PM&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Though infrastructure gaps and challenges inhibit the Middle Corridor&rsquo;s potential, some businesses in the region are doing quite well.&nbsp; Experts from the energy, business, and extractive sectors discuss what works and what can work better in the Caspian region. &nbsp; What steps can be taken to address institutionalized impediments to doing business in the Caspian region?&nbsp; What has the creation of the Middle Corridor meant for international business? Are there low-hanging fruits to improve business capabilities?

&nbsp;

1:30 pm &ndash; 2:30 pm Panel Discussion&nbsp;

Moderator: Dr. Eric Rudenshiold, Caspian Policy Center Board Member&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Robert Scher, Vice President, BP America</li>
	<li>Mamuka Murjikneli, CEO, Wondernet Investment Group&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Laura Brank, Partner, Dechert LLP</li>
	<li>Eugene Seah, Chief Operating Officer, Baku International Sea Trade Port</li>
	<li>Carolyn Lamm, Chairman of the Board, American-Uzbekistan Chamber of Commerce (Invited)</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;<a class="magazine_detail_read_button" href="https://caspianpolicy.org/research/press-releases/the-caspian-policy-center-hosts-its-8th-trans-caspian-forum-in-washington-dc">Press Release</a>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;<a class="magazine_detail_read_button" href="https://caspianpolicy.org/events/upcoming">Upcoming Events</a>

&nbsp;

For sponsorship opportunities please contact&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jfreund@caspianpolicy.org">jfreund@caspianpolicy.org</a>

&nbsp;

<a class="magazine_detail_read_button" href="https://api.caspianpolicy.org/media/ckeditor_media/2024/04/18/sponsorship.pdf">Sponsorship</a>

&nbsp;

The 8th Annual Trans-Caspian Forum: How to Maximize the Middle Corridor

<img alt="" src="https://api.caspianpolicy.org/media/ckeditor_media/2024/05/20/img_9717-min.jpg" />

&nbsp;

On May 16, the Caspian Policy Center (CPC) organized a discussion in collaboration with the Near East South Asia Center for Strategic Studies (NESA Center) of the U.S. National Defense University. This event, conducted as a part of the Silk Road Future Leaders Seminar initiative led by the NESA Center, brought together young military officers, diplomats, and academics from the South Caucasus, South Asia, and Central Asia. The discussion, moderated by Roger Kangas, focused on climate change and regional connectivity in the Caspian Region. Dr. Eric Rudenshiold, Ambassador (ret.) Richard Hoagland, and Efgan Nifti addressed the unprecedented climate, water, and other policy issues facing the South Caucasus and Central Asia. The event also served as an opportunity to discuss the risks and challenges of climate change, and ways that the region can take affective action.

Discussion on Climate Change and Regional Connectivity

The Caspian Policy Center is proud to host Ambassador Furqat Sidiqov, the Ambassador of the Republic of Uzbekistan to the United States, for a discussion on political and economic developments in Uzbekistan and the Caspian region. This is the third installment of CPC&rsquo;s Ambassadorial interview series. This in-person conversation will be held on Wednesday, April 3, 10:00 am &ndash; 11:30 am at CPC&rsquo;s Washington DC office on the 11th floor. 

&nbsp;

Uzbekistan sits along the intersection of historical trade routes connecting the East with the West and the North with the South. Its strategic location has placed Uzbekistan at the crux of several geopolitical forces. This interview, as part of a broader CPC series, will take the opportunity to learn from the Ambassador and learn his perspective on the future of his country, the region, and recent developments. 

&nbsp;

Ambassador Furqat Sidiqov was appointed as the Ambassador of Uzbekistan to the United States on March 3, 2023. Prior to his appointment, Ambassador Sidiqov served as Uzbekistan&rsquo;s First Deputy Foreign Minister since November 2022 and, prior to that, he served as the Deputy Foreign Minister since 2020. He also served as attach&eacute; at the Embassy of Uzbekistan to the United States (2002-2007), First Secretary of this embassy (2011-2015), Ambassador of Uzbekistan to Pakistan (2015-2020).

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<a class="magazine_detail_read_button" href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/discussion-with-uzbek-ambassador-furqat-sidiqov-tickets-863756417697?aff=oddtdtcreator">Register for in-person attendance</a>

&nbsp;

<a class="magazine_detail_read_button" href="https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_nipB6BhGRfqcH5g8C7o0HQ#/registration">Register to watch online</a>

Discussion with Ambassador Furqat Sidiqov, Ambassador of the Republic of Uzbekistan to the United States

The Caspian Policy Center is proud to host Ambassador Khazar Ibrahim, the Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the United States, for a discussion on recent changes and developments in Azerbaijan and the Caspian region. This is the second installment of CPC&rsquo;s Ambassadorial interview series. This in-person conversation will be held Wednesday, February 28, 1:00 pm &ndash; 2:30 pm at CPC&rsquo;s Washington DC office.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Azerbaijan, the country situated on the crossroads of the East-West and North-South Trade corridors, has significantly raised its geostrategic importance within the last three decades of independence.&nbsp; An energy-rich nation that is set to host COP29, Baku is finding itself in the center of a global spotlight. This interview, as part of a broader CPC series, will take the opportunity to learn from the Ambassador and learn his perspective on the future of his country, the region, and recent developments.

&nbsp;

Ambassador Khazar Ibrahim was appointed Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the United States in July 2021. He is a career diplomat, having previously served as the Azerbaijani Ambassador to T&uuml;rkiye from 2017 to 2021. He also served as Head of the&nbsp;Mission&nbsp;of the Republic of Azerbaijan to NATO with the rank of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary between 2011-2017. From 2009 to 2011, he was Deputy Chief of&nbsp;Mission&nbsp;of the Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the&nbsp;United States of America. Before that, he served as spokesman of the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry and deputy spokesman. He also worked at the Political-Military Division of the Foreign Ministry, being directly involved in drafting the National Security Concept of Azerbaijan and the implementation of the Individual Partnership Action Plan with NATO.

&nbsp;

RSVP Here:&nbsp;https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_yOO_aR2qTSC4-bJx3LZuHA

Or contact

&nbsp;

<a class="magazine_detail_read_button" href="mailto:rsvp@caspianpolicy.org">RSVP@caspianpolicy.org</a>

CPC Ambassadorial Interview Series: Ambassador Khazar Ibrahim, Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the United States

On February 22, the Caspian Policy (CPC) co-hosted with the Embassy of Uzbekistan, a dinner in honor of Secretary-General of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) Ambassador Kubanychbek Omuraliev. This dinner was attended by Ambassadors and representatives of the OTS Member Countries and Observer Countries of Azerbaijan, Hungary, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, T&uuml;rkiye, and Turkmenistan. The event was also attended by representatives of the U.S. government including Deputy Assistant Secretary for South and Central Asia Ambassador John Mark Pommersheim, as well as representatives from the State Department and the National Security Council. The OTS has been an important harbinger of connectivity in the Caspian Region and has served as a uniting force amongst Turkic-speaking countries in the fields of trade, economy, security, and more. This dinner served as a platform to discuss progress of the OTS and the vision for the year ahead for the organization.

&nbsp;

<img alt="" src="https://api.caspianpolicy.org/media/ckeditor_media/2024/02/28/image001-1_f6HpIKG.png" />

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<img alt="" src="https://api.caspianpolicy.org/media/ckeditor_media/2024/02/27/image002_xQz8Y17.png" />

&nbsp;

<img alt="" src="https://api.caspianpolicy.org/media/ckeditor_media/2024/02/27/image003_HchLbzV.png" />

Dinner with Secretary-General of the OTS, Ambassador Kubanychbek Omuraliev

On February 5, the Caspian Policy&nbsp;Center (CPC) held a roundtable discussion in London titled, &ldquo;Water and Climate in the Caspian Region: Is it Too Late?&rdquo;. This timely discussion addressed the unprecedented climate and water issues facing the South Caucasus and Central Asia. With the rate of glaciers melting in the Caspian Region at an increased rate, the weather patterns have been altered and seasons have been shortened. This has already lead to natural disasters such as floods and reservoir issues in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. Water insecurity coupled with dated infrastructure has affected nearly one-third of Central Asia&rsquo;s population. This discussion served as an opportunity to discuss Dr Rudenshiold&rsquo;s analysis of the risks and challenges, and ways that the region can take affective action and the international community provide effective support.

<img alt="" src="https://api.caspianpolicy.org/media/ckeditor_media/2024/02/28/image003-1.jpg" />

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<img alt="" src="https://api.caspianpolicy.org/media/ckeditor_media/2024/02/27/image001.jpg" />

&nbsp;

<img alt="" src="https://api.caspianpolicy.org/media/ckeditor_media/2024/02/27/image002.jpg" />

Roundtable Discussion: Water and Climate in the Caspian Region: Is it Too Late?

The Caspian Policy Center (CPC) and the Caucasus and Central Asia (CCA) Club convene high-level experts and policymakers to discuss critical security challenges in the Black Sea region. From Russia&rsquo;s invasion of Ukraine and peace-building efforts in the South Caucasus to infrastructure investment and green transitions, this conference aims to raise regional voices and strengthen collective prosperity and security between the United States and the Black Sea region. In partnership with Johns Hopkins University&rsquo;s SAIS Europe and Eurasia Department and the Caspian Policy Center, the Black Sea Security Conference is proud to include keynote remarks from the Hon. Celeste Wallander, U.S. Asst. Secretary for Defense, and discussions with experts from the academic, public, and private sectors.

We are pleased to welcome you to our Black Sea Security Conference on January 24, 2024, at John Hopkins University&rsquo;s Bloomberg Center.

<a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/S8eFWvrJQQefwCjq6">555 Pennsylvania Avenue, 8th floor </a>

9:00 AM &ndash; 3 PM, January 24, 2024

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<a class="magazine_detail_read_button" href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/black-sea-security-conference-tickets-782147262517?aff=oddtdtcreator">Register</a>

Black Sea Security

Please join the Caspian Policy Center for a conversation with the U.S. Ambassador to Kazakhstan, Ambassador Daniel N. Rosenblum. The Caspian Policy Center is proud to host Ambassador Rosenblum to discuss U.S. policy toward Kazakhstan and the current events unfolding in Kazakhstan and Central Asia. 

&nbsp;

Ambassador Rosenblum was sworn in as the U.S. Ambassador to Kazakhstan on October 28, 2022, after serving as the U.S. Ambassador to Uzbekistan (2019-2022) and as Deputy Assistant Secretary for Central Asia in the State Department&rsquo;s Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs (2014-2018). 

&nbsp;

This event will take place on January 4, from 1pm to 2:30pm EST in a hybrid format. Join us online or in person at our 11th floor conference room at 1015 15th St NW, Washington DC.

Special Roundtable: Ambassador Rosenblum on U.S. Policy Toward Kazakhstan

As the second anniversary of Russia&rsquo;s invasion of Ukraine nears, it is more imperative than ever for international leaders to meet to develop strategies to make countries more resilient to shocks and ensure critical energy supplies from diverse sources. The UK Government has announced a global London Energy Security Conference for next Spring.

&nbsp;

In preparation for this and other international high-level meetings the Caspian Policy Center (CPC) will hold its own Caspian Energy Security Conference in London on November 21, 2023. This event will serve as a platform bringing together prominent voices from the UK Government, Caspian countries, and high-level representation from international organisations and energy companies. It has never been more important for the international community to work together on energy diversification in the Caspian Region.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/2Wz8LbXRXNFf45FB7">Location:&nbsp;6 Temple Place, London, United Kingdom, WC2R 2PG, United Kingdom</a>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<a class="magazine_detail_read_button" href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/caspian-energy-security-conference-registration-754608583587?aff=ebdsoporgprofile">Register</a>

Caspian Energy Security Conference

This virtual event is intended to bring together experts, academics, policymakers, and all interested parties to discuss modern strategies for nation-building in a world increasingly dominated by competing developmental strategies. The event will focus on Central Asia and its role in counterbalancing and integrating Western, Russian, and Chinese efforts to influence the region&rsquo;s trajectory. Since the end of territorial empires after the Second World War and later the dissolution of the Soviet Union, the world has grappled with how to build a nation-state aimed at social and economic modernization. Contemporary challenges, including multiculturalism, sectarian radicalization, mass migration, ecological disasters, mass communications, attracting foreign investment, building institutions and the rule of law, economic interdependency, and an increasingly chaotic and dangerous international system, raise questions for the Central Asians over the traditional prescriptions of the Great Powers and potential alternative models of development.

&nbsp;

Nevertheless, traditional ideas and influences continue to dominate popular and even expert views on what nation-building in this evolving region entails. Central Asia deserves expert and public attention to understand current trends. The proposed event will discuss economic, cultural, and sociological achievements and developments in Central Asia and their influence on building modern states, including the track record of recent reforms. This enables us to discuss social modernization, constitutional and legal reform, de-russification, indigenization, language reform, e-government initiatives, and other policy issues.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Nation Building in the New Central Asia

On September 19, history was made with the first-ever C5+1 Presidential gathering with U.S. President Biden. The C5 group, made up of the five Central Asian countries (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan), was established in 2015. However, since its establishment, a United States President had never met with the group &ndash; Until now. Ongoing political and security turmoil in Ukraine has led the United States to recognize that it must seek a greater role in Central Asia because &ldquo;the world is safer when we stand together.&quot; With U.S. President Joseph Biden&rsquo;s meeting with the group in the margins of the United Nations General Assembly, U.S.-Central Asian cooperation is rising to new heights.

&nbsp;

In this expert panel, speakers will address areas of opportunity between Central Asia and the United States, potential challenges to enhancing cooperation with Central Asia, and the regional implications of the United States&rsquo; increased engagement with Central Asia.

&nbsp;

The Caspian Policy Center is proud to host leading regional experts to address these questions and discuss what concrete steps the United States can take to help deepen further engagement with the region.

&nbsp;

<h2><a class="magazine_detail_read_button" href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/bidens-first-meeting-with-the-c51-where-can-we-go-from-here-tickets-739466944537?aff=oddtdtcreator">REGISTER</a></h2>

&nbsp;

Biden’s First Meeting with the C5+1: Where Can We Go from Here?

The Caspian Policy Center is proud to host this event to bring together prominent voices in business, government, and non-profits to discuss new business challenges and opportunities for the Caspian region. The forum will bring together policymakers, business leaders, and members of the academic community at the Harvard Club to discuss the emerging business landscape across the South Caucasus and Central Asia.&nbsp;

<h3 style="text-align:center">&nbsp;</h3>

<h3 style="text-align:center">September 19, 2023&nbsp;</h3>

<h3 style="text-align:center">The Harvard Club</h3>

<h3 style="text-align:center">35 W 44th St</h3>

<h3 style="text-align:center">New York, NY 10036</h3>

<h3 style="text-align:center">&nbsp;5:30 pm - 9:00 pm&nbsp;</h3>

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<img alt="" src="https://api.caspianpolicy.org/media/ckeditor_media/2023/09/18/4th-cbf-web_mLZIP43.png" />

4th Caspian Business Forum

The Caspian Policy Center (CPC) will hold its first Caspian Connectivity Conference in London. Policy, government, and business leaders from the United Kingdom, United States, and Caspian corridor countries will come together to discuss connectivity, energy, and economy in the Caspian region, as well as UK involvement and opportunity regarding such avenues. This conference will consist of two panel discussions which will illuminate on opportunities and challenges of UK-Caspian relations, especially through the lenses of energy security and investment.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://goo.gl/maps/7YEMjboQan7BsvdE9">The Insurance Hall</a>

<a href="https://goo.gl/maps/7YEMjboQan7BsvdE9">London, United Kingdom</a>

<a href="https://goo.gl/maps/7YEMjboQan7BsvdE9">20-21 Aldermanbury, London EC2V 7HY&nbsp;</a>

Caspian Connectivity Conference

The Caspian Policy Center (CPC) is proud to host this event to honor the partnership between the United States and the countries of the Caspian Region. In coordination with the embassies of Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, T&uuml;rkiye, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, this forum will bring together U.S. and Caspian region policymakers, business leaders, and members of the academic community to honor the accomplishments of U.S.-Caspian relationship, and to discuss upcoming opportunities and challenges. The importance of nurturing strategic relations between the United States and the countries of the Caspian Region have been increasingly re-affirmed through high-level visits to the region and initiatives such as the U.S. State Department&rsquo;s&nbsp;Economic Resilience in Central Asia Initiative (ERICEN).

&nbsp;

The National Press Club&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://goo.gl/maps/YNMHYqbGa4uQPgr8A?coh=178572&amp;entry=tt">1661 Pennsylvania Avenue NW #1 </a>

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7th Trans-Caspian Forum

Nearly ten years ago, China launched its colossal infrastructure investment program, the &lsquo;Belt and Road Initiative.&rsquo; 147 countries worldwide have signed agreements associated with this endeavor, including eight of the nine countries in the Caspian Region. China&rsquo;s growing influence has fundamentally changed the economies of Central Asia, but it has come with significant costs. Implications of the Covid-19 pandemic, an estimated $1.6 trillion in unpaid debts globally, and abandoned infrastructure projects have complicated the region&rsquo;s economic capacities and demanded a reassessed approach from the United States and alternative trade partners.&nbsp;

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In this panel, speakers will address some of the opportunities and obstacles Central Asian governments face with China&rsquo;s BRI investments. What are the broader geopolitical implications of Central Asia&rsquo;s cooperation with China? How can Central Asian governments balance economic growth with financial, environmental, and labor concerns at home? And how can the United States help confront the issues of BRI investments and projects in Central Asia?

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The Caspian Policy Center is proud to host leading regional experts to address these questions and discuss Central Asia&rsquo;s future role in China&rsquo;s BRI and how the United States can respond to its implications.&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

<h3>Adress: Conference Room,&nbsp;<a href="https://goo.gl/maps/ZZbuNUvo4awC5Scg9">1015 15th ST, NW Suite 380, Washington DC 20005</a></h3>

<h3>RSVP to <a href="mailto:name@email.com">Haley Nelson</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;hnelson@caspianpolicy.org</h3>

If you want to attend to the event online, <a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_qdGU7hvaQFymZbsGxQe81A">Please register here</a>.

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The Future of China’s Belt and Road Initiative in Central Asia

Oil and gas markets have been fundamentally challenged by pressures to accelerate the lowcarbon transition, emerging trade routes, soaring oil and gas prices, and reoriented corporate portfolios. While the world navigates extreme market volatility and upending corporate strategies and government policies, energy security has become the utmost priority in geopolitics. As Europe has vowed to halt Russian energy imports, new markets have opened, and new industries are emerging. The Caspian region, with tremendous wind, solar, and hydropower potential, can help solve market uncertainty and growing global energy demands.&nbsp;

How are Caspian region countries diversifying energy portfolios? How are they responding to the global energy crisis? And what are the upcoming opportunities and challenges?

&nbsp;The Caspian Policy Center is proud to host leading energy market analysts, regional experts, and energy innovators to address these challenges and discuss the Caspian region&rsquo;s renewable energy potential.&nbsp;

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Webinar: Renewables in the Caspian Region: Areas of Opportunity and Diversification

<img alt="" src="https://api.caspianpolicy.org/media/ckeditor_media/2022/12/16/dec-15-event.jpeg" style="height:711px; width:800px" />

On December 15, the Caspian Policy Center (CPC) hosted Dr. Taleh Ziyadov, the Director-General of the Baku International Sea Trade Port, to discuss the development of the Middle Corridor and the role the Port of Baku can play in this expanding transit route. Dr. Ziyadov offered his insight on the challenges impeding the current regional trade environment. The Middle Corridor has great potential to become one of Europe&rsquo;s primary trade routes and sources of energy. Recently, with the ongoing war in Ukraine, the Middle Corridor has received international attention, and it has become paramount to expand the capacity of these routes to lead the way in European energy diversification efforts. However, its potential is still unmet as cargo capacity must first expand before trade volumes can increase through infrastructural development and synchronization of policies of all involved parties. The event was attended by the Washington policy community, including think tanks, international organizations, and government representatives.

Assessing Important Developments on the Middle Corridor with Changing World Dynamics

<img alt="" src="https://api.caspianpolicy.org/media/ckeditor_media/2022/12/09/img_4362.jpeg" style="height:578px; width:800px" />

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Washington, DC- Thursday, November 8, the Caspian Policy Center (CPC) hosted a panel of experts to discuss upcoming economic opportunities and challenges in the Caspian region. Renewable energy, transit routes, regional connectivity, investment potential, Russian migrants, the digital economy, and privatization were amongst the many topics covered at this event.

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Admiral (ret.) Ron Maclaren opened the event with welcome remarks, highlighting the potential economic opportunities that have emerged since Russia invaded Ukraine earlier this year, shifting the global paradigm. He posed the question on how the Caspian region can forward its economic prospects.

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Madina Zhunusbekova, the IMF&rsquo;s senior advisor for Europe and Eurasia, commented that &ldquo;Kazakhstan is implementing structural reforms and monetary policy tightening.&rdquo;

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And, &ldquo;in terms of economic growth outlook for 2023, the growth expectations are still high, despite uncertainties,&rdquo; she added.

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Aziza Umarova, a visiting fellow at Harvard University&rsquo;s Davis Center, responded to Admiral Maclaren&rsquo;s question by adding that there is great untapped potential in several Central Asian markets. To see drastic economic improvement, the United States only needs to shift 3% of its textile imports &ldquo;from the Chinese textile industry to Central Asia.&rdquo; Although a small percent, this shift &ldquo;would be enough to make substantial change in the region.&rdquo;

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The discussion also covered Central Asian energy security, which has been a major point of interest from Western companies since the war in Ukraine began earlier this year.

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Umarova stated that, &ldquo;prior to the Ukraine War, it was nearly impossible to get to the gas market in Uzbekistan, due to large presence of Russian gas servicing companies. After the war, there are more opportunities for foreign companies in Uzbekistan&rsquo;s gas sector.&rdquo;

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Richard Spooner, manager of government relations of Valmont Industries, added that to provide a quick surge in economic growth in the region &ldquo;oil and gas infrastructure can be re-tooled to transfer green hydrogen.&rdquo; As solar, wind, and nuclear energy have increasingly become more attractive in the energy field, there is great potential for the countries of the Caspian region to gain a foothold in this growing industry.

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However, he added that there are some challenges which need to be addressed: &ldquo;Only if the big global energy companies get involved, the Trans-Caspian pipeline would get built.&rdquo; The potential of the Middle Corridor transit route can only be reached if proper investment is first allocated.

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Overall, the speakers agreed that changing global dynamics have added to the region&#39;s investment attractiveness. However, regional connectivity needs to continue developing for investment projects to become more practical.

Economic Forecast for the Caspian Region

<h2 style="text-align:center">&nbsp;</h2>

<h2>1015 15th St NW, 11th floor conference room&nbsp;</h2>

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When the period for nomination of candidates closed in October, Kazakhstan entered the presidential election campaign period from October 21 to November 18, 2022. The January events at the beginning of this year, or &lsquo;Tragic January,&rsquo; in multiple regions of Kazakhstan have shaken and tested the system of law and order with its organized violence and destruction. Earlier in September, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, announced new constitutional amendments and snap presidential elections, with the updated presidential mandate limited to one term of seven years without the right to be re-elected. &nbsp;He said that the new presidential system would strengthen Kazakhstan&rsquo;s political stability and social structure. All institutional changes envisioned by the constitutional reforms are to be legally completed by the end of this year.

On November 17, the Caspian Policy Center is proud to host regional experts and policy officials to share and exchange valuable insights on the historical and future constitutional path, current realities, and opportunities for Kazakhstan.

&nbsp;

<h3>RSVP to hnelson@caspianpolicy.org</h3>

Upcoming Elections in Kazakhstan: Realities and Opportunities

The Organization of Turkic States is an international organization that has emerged as an increasingly influential platform for connecting Turkic-speaking countries, as well as fostering comprehensive cooperation between these countries and the world. This institution is made up of five member states: Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, T&uuml;rkiye, and Uzbekistan, with Hungary and Turkmenistan having observer status. Previously called the Turkic Council, the organization underwent a significant transformation in the last few years following the 8th Summit in Istanbul, in which it was renamed the Organization of Turkic States. The organization has been influential in working closely to develop connectivity, harmonization of trade, and has done so in different multilateral formats. Furthermore, the organization has been involved in recent talks about security collaboration.

We invite you to join the Caspian Policy Center for a discussion with Ambassador Baghdad Amreyev, Secretary General for the Organization of Turkic States on the role of the organization in a rapidly changing world, especially as traditional power brokers face new obstacles. CPC is delighted to host Ambassador Amreyev to this discussion and we are eager to foster closer relations between our organizations, as we both share the vision of just how important this region is on a global scale.

The Organization of Turkic States’ Role in a Changing World

The Caspian Policy Center is proud to host this event to bring together the best minds in business, government, and non-profits to discuss new business challenges and opportunities for the Caspian region. The forum will bring together policymakers, business leaders, and members of the academic community at the Yale Club to discuss the emerging business landscape across the South Caucasus and Central Asia.

Third Caspian Business Forum

On July 6, the Caspian Policy Center hosted a closed discussion on supporting small- and medium-sized enterprises in Azerbaijan with Orkhan Mammadov, Chairman of the Small and Medium Business Development Agency of Azerbaijan. Mammadov briefed CPC board members and staff on strategies implemented by the Azerbaijani government to promote SME growth following the economic challenges brought on by Russia&rsquo;s invasion of Ukraine. He also discussed the inclusion of green energy approaches and plans to incorporate smart cities into the country.

Caspian Policy Center Hosts Discussion with Orkhan Mammadov Chairman of the Small and Medium Business Development Agency of Azerbaijan

The Caspian Security Conference organized by the Washington-based Caspian Policy Center and the Near East South Asia Center for Strategic Studies (NESA Center) of the U.S. National Defense University, will explore the future of security for the Greater Caspian Region following Russia&rsquo;s invasion of Ukraine. Conference sessions will examine the following questions:&nbsp;

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&nbsp;- What role can the United States play in helping Caspian countries maintain positive relations with all partners in the region?&nbsp;

&nbsp;-&nbsp;How can the United States and Caspian countries work together to stabilize Eurasian markets in the wake of Russian sanctions and prevent sanction busting?&nbsp;

&nbsp;- How can the United States and its European allies work with the Caspian region to ensure stable energy markets in the wake of Western disengagement from the Russian energy market?&nbsp;

&nbsp;- What can the Caspian countries do to insulate themselves from potential security threats stemming from the invasion of Ukraine?&nbsp;

&nbsp;- How can the United States and its allies aid the Caspian countries in countering security threats from malign actors?&nbsp;

&nbsp;- Can the United States and its NATO allies create successful comprehensive national security partnerships with Caspian countries?&nbsp;

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After gaining independence, the countries of the South Caucasus and Central Asia quickly set out to build international relationships, protect their sovereignty, and safeguard their national security. The United States began forming political and security relationships with the Caspian region and all eight countries joined the NATO Partnership for Peace. During the U.S. and NATO mission in Afghanistan, countries on both sides of the Caspian Sea provided essential assistance to the United States and Europe. International forces departed Afghanistan on August 31, 2021, leaving the political and security outlook of the country and its neighbors in question. Then, early in January 2022, the region saw CSTO troops deployed for the first time to Kazakhstan and on February 24 Russia invaded Ukraine.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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The U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan and Russia&#39;s invasion of Ukraine have demonstrated a need to reevaluate relations with traditional security partners and great powers, leaving the Caspian countries in the difficult position of determining their security future. As the United States and Europe come together to impose heavy sanctions on Russia, the Caspian region must navigate complex political, defense, and economic ties between Russia and the West. The countries of the region will need to develop and employ decisive, creative, and cooperative solutions to both protect their national security and to collaborate with a diverse set of international partners.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Caspian Security Conference: What Comes Next for the Caspian Region Following the Russian Invasion of Ukraine

Russia&rsquo;s use of its naval capabilities in the Caspian Sea to strike Ukraine emphasizes the strategic importance that the landlocked body of water can play. Restricted access to the Caspian Sea, an important route for transcontinental shipping and energy transit, accentuates the power disparity of the different navies and coast guards that operate in the region. The attack on Ukraine marks a shift in Russian policy, and its use of the Caspian fleet potentially reflects the changing security demands of the region as well as the traditional challenges of preventing trans-Caspian smuggling.

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We invite you to join the Caspian Policy Center for a panel discussion on the implications of Russia&rsquo;s use of the Caspian Sea on the South Caucasus and Central Asia and the long-term security challenges for the littoral states.

Assessing Caspian Naval Defenses: Threats and Opportunities

The Caspian Policy Center is proud to host 30 Years of U.S.-Caspian Relations: A Celebration to honor the 30th anniversary of partnership between the United States and the countries of the Caspian region. In coordination of Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkey, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, the celebration will bring together policymakers, business leaders, and members of the academic community at the National Press Club to honor the accomplishments of U.S.-Caspian relationship over the past three decades.&nbsp;

Celebrating 30 Years of U.S.- Caspian Diplomatic Relations

In March and April, senior fellows, advisors, and staff of the Caspian Policy Center traveled to Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia to meet with experts and officials in each of the countries. In these meetings, they learned about the energy, security, and diplomatic aspects of each country&rsquo;s current policy in the region, and what those policies mean for regional cooperation and peace. In the briefing CPC&rsquo;s experts shared their takeaways from the region&rsquo;s capitals and potential opportunities to increase U.S. engagement. and the implications of Russia&rsquo;s invasion of Ukraine. 

As Putin&rsquo;s invasion of Ukraine has further upset the geopolitical balance of a region already dealing with the consequences of COVID-19, the implications of the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the region&rsquo;s reactions were of primary focus. Additionally, the potential for progress in forming a lasting peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia was discussed. The briefing was attended by members of the diplomatic, academic, think tank, and business communities.

CPC Holds a Briefing on Trips to the South Caucasus

As Russia&rsquo;s military buildup on its border with Ukraine continues and recuring attempts at diplomacy fail, tensions between Russia and NATO have reached their highest point since the collapse of the Soviet Union. Though President Putin&rsquo;s efforts to establish Russia&rsquo;s &ldquo;privileged sphere of influence&rdquo; in the former Soviet space have currently focused on Russia&rsquo;s western flank, the impacts of his actions will reverberate across Eurasia.

We invite you to join the Caspian Policy Center for a panel discussion on the implications of the Russian military threat on the Ukrainian border for the security of the South Caucasus and Central Asia and their relationship with Russia.

Putin’s Ukraine Crisis: Implications Across Eurasia

For thirty years, U.S.- Caspian engagement has proven a critical component of regional stability and goodwill. In 2021, the countries of the Caspian region celebrated their thirtieth year of independence, and the Caspian Policy Center, which has served as a bridge between the region and the United States celebrated its fifth anniversary. To celebrate what the countries of the Caspian region have achieved in their independence and to look towards future U.S.-Caspian prosperity in the next thirty years, the Caspian Policy Center is proud to host a panel of senior representatives to discuss the past, present, and future of U.S.-Caspian relations.   &nbsp;

30 Years of U.S.-Caspian Diplomatic Relations

Kazakhstan, long seen as an example of stability in Central Asia, experienced unprecedented mass protests in reaction to increases in fuel prices. Violence later broke out in Almaty, the country&rsquo;s largest city and business hub, as crowds took over government buildings and public infrastructure. The government of Kazakhstan appealed to the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), marking the CSTO&rsquo;s first ever mobilization.

Multiple narratives have emerged as details remain unclear in the wake of large-scale internet shutdowns throughout the country. At this event we will discuss the unrest in Kazakhstan and what it means for the country and region going forward.

Protests and Unrest in Kazakhstan: What Happened and What’s Next?

After recent events in Central Asia and Afghanistan, Ambassador Baktybek Amanbaev of Kyrgyzstan and representatives of Kyrgyzstan&rsquo;s Embassy in Washington, D.C. attended a meeting with the Caspian Policy Center and shared their thoughts on current regional and global issues. Ambassador Amanbaev discussed challenges facing the region and opportunities for U.S.-Kyrgyz cooperation. The meeting included members of Kyrgyzstan&rsquo;s Embassy and Caspian Policy Center senior fellows and staff.

Briefing at the Caspian Policy Center with Ambassador of Kyrgyzstan to the U.S. Baktybek Amanbaev

The Caspian Policy Center held a briefing on bilateral U.S.-Kazakhstani relations with Special Representative of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan for International Cooperation Erzhan Kazykhan and Ambassador of Kazakhstan to the United States Yerzhan Ashikbayev. At this briefing, new opportunities for U.S.-Kazakhstani relations were discussed as well as how the United States can strengthen the partnership between the countries. The discussants included representatives from the Embassy of Kazakhstan to the United States and members of the CPC advisory board and staff.

Briefing with the Kazakhstani Presidential Representative Erzhan Kazykhan and Ambassador of Kazakhstan to the U.S. Yerzhan Ashikbayev

A year after parliamentary election turmoil led to President Sooronbay Jeenbekov&rsquo;s resignation, the Kyrgyz Republic is holding new elections for a parliament that has seen substantial change since the prior year. During President Sadyr Japarov&rsquo;s one year in office, new challenges for the country and the region have emerged. Given the tumultuous history of parliamentary elections in the Kyrgyz Republic, the elections are a pivotal point for the country. 
The Caspian Policy Center will discuss the outcomes and implications of the most recent election. The discussion will host experts on the Kyrgyz Republic, cover the results of the parliamentary election, and what it will mean for the country and region. 
&nbsp;

Bishkek at the Ballot Box: An Analysis of the Kyrgyz Parliamentary Election

To follow the summit of the Turkic Council in Istanbul this November, the Caspian Policy Center is organizing a special ambassadorial briefing. This year&rsquo;s summit witnessed considerable changes to the Turkic Council, including its restructuring into the Organization of Turkic States. At this event we will hear from the ambassadors of member states, as they share their thoughts on what the organization will mean for the future of the region, and what roles it can serve to facilitate closer ties between the Turkic countries.

In addition to representatives from the embassies, the briefing will include experts from leading think tanks and key U.S. government agencies. Lunch will be provided.

Caspian Ambassadorial Briefing: The Organization of Turkic States

Thirty years ago, the Soviet Socialist Republics became independent nations and quickly set out to build international relationships, protect their sovereignty, and safeguard their national security. For the last 20 years, the ongoing U. S. military presence in Afghanistan and the struggle between the Afghan government and the Taliban have had a profound impact on the security of the Caspian region and its relationships with the United States.&nbsp; International forces departed Afghanistan on August 31, 2021, leaving the political and security outlook of Afghanistan in question, and by extension the stability of the entire Caspian region. &nbsp;The repercussions of this political, humanitarian, and military withdrawal loom large for the countries of Central Asia and the South Caucasus and have the potential to drastically alter the security outlook of the Caspian region.&nbsp; As this process plays out, the countries of the region will need to develop and employ decisive, creative, and cooperative solutions to both protect their national security and to collaborate with a diverse set of international partners.

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<h3><a href="http://caspiansecurity.org/">LEARN MORE AND REGISTER</a></h3>

Caspian Security Conference

One year ago, the Second Nagorno-Karabakh War took place, resulting in Azerbaijan regaining control of seven territories Armenian forces had long occupied as well as much of Nagorno-Karabakh itself, resulting in much of the Armenian population leaving the area, and a Russian-brokered cease-fire that included the deployment of Russian peacekeepers. That ceasefire remains in place, but there is no peace and no serious movement towards a peace agreement. While there have been some positive actions, for example, high-level talks on improving transportation connectivity and the return of some detainees and the provision of information on the location of minefields, border skirmishes and other incidents show the potential for renewed conflict.

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In light of this anniversary of the Second Nagorno-Karabakh War, the Caspian Policy Center is gathering two former U.S. ambassadors to the region for an online event to discuss the outlook for peace and reconciliation, and steps the countries in the region, as well as the United States and international organizations, can take to help Armenians and Azerbaijanis build a more peaceful, prosperous, and stable future.

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To confirm your attendance and to receive a Zoom link to join the session, please email <a href="http://jcohen@caspianpolicy.org">jcohen@caspianpolicy.org</a>.

One Year After the Nagorno-Karabakh War: A Need for Initiative

Japan and the Republic of Korea have strengthened their presence across the Caspian in recent years, particularly through a number of cultural and economic projects. Additionally, South Korea is a growing destination for Central Asian migrant workers. While much has been made of China&rsquo;s investment and aggressive foreign policy in Central Asia, Japan and South Korea&rsquo;s substantial relationships in the region are too often underestimated.&nbsp;

 
In conjunction with the Caspian Policy Center&rsquo;s new policy brief&nbsp;titled &ldquo;It&rsquo;s Not Only China: Japan and Korea&rsquo;s Growing Roles in Central Asia&rdquo; we will gather Japanese, South Korean, and regional experts to discuss the growing roles of Japan and South Korea in the Caspian and their geopolitical significance. The discussion will cover Japanese and South Korean investment, development aid, and business in the Caspian as well as high-level political contacts between Central Asia&rsquo;s capitals and Tokyo and Seoul. The experts will provide their perspective on Japan and South Korea&rsquo;s activity in the region, possible future areas of engagement, and what these important relationships can mean for the United States and others.

Japan and Korea’s Growing Economic Engagement in the Caspian

Women&rsquo;s entrepreneurship is a pathway for equitable economic growth and gender equality. The government of Tajikistan has taken a number of steps to build a favorable environment for women to start and grow businesses. Yet, new stresses posed by global responses to COVID-19 require us to rethink how to best support female-owned enterprises amidst a global pandemic with gendered consequences.

For this event, we will gather regional and international practitioners and academics to discuss key developments in women&rsquo;s entrepreneurship in Tajikistan over the past three decades. The discussion will cover the legacy of Soviet policies and civil war on gender roles, the legal and social environments in which female-owned businesses function, and the impact of technology on entrepreneurship. The speakers will also share their insights on how to best circumvent challenges posed by the global pandemic, as well as suggestions for overcoming barriers to women&rsquo;s economic empowerment in the long run.

Join this CPC webinar as we discuss the accomplishments of women&rsquo;s entrepreneurship in Tajikistan and identify pathways to their further reinforcement and expansion.

Strategies for Inclusive Economic Growth: Women’s Entrepreneurship in Tajikistan

On December 25, 1991, the United States became the first country to recognize Kazakhstan&rsquo;s independence. The thirty years of the United States-Kazakhstan partnership since then have been marked by countless achievements across diplomatic, economic, and cultural areas.

For this event, we will gather four former U.S. ambassadors to Kazakhstan to discuss the key developments in the U.S.-Kazakhstan relationship over the last three decades. The discussion will cover milestones like denuclearization, the Cooperative Threat Reduction Program, the development of the Tengiz field and the signing of the Tengizchevroil partnership, the embassy&rsquo;s move from Almaty to Nur-Sultan (then-Astana), cooperation following the 9/11 attacks, the inauguration of the C5+1 format, Expo 2017, and many other key moments. The ambassadors will also share their views on the current state of the U.S.-Kazakhstan relationship and what the next decade might hold.

Join this CPC webinar as we discuss the accomplishments of U.S.-Kazakhstan cooperation over the last three decades with diplomats who played key roles in guiding that partnership.

Thirty Years of Partnership: A Conversation with Four U.S. Ambassadors to Kazakhstan

Due in part to its strategic location at the intersection of Europe, East Asia, South Asia, and the Middle East, the Caspian region has long been an area where outside powers have competed for influence. This is no less true today, with the region attracting considerable interest from China, Russia, the United States, and the European Union, as well as other nearby powers like Turkey and Iran. Central Asia and the South Caucasus are home to a vast wealth of natural resources and straddle vital east-west and north-south transit corridors. As Russia seeks to maintain its historic position, China expands its much-touted Belt and Road Initiative, and the United States sets its sights on reengaging with the international community, the stage is set for a renewed period of great power competition in the Caspian region. With effective foreign policy and an eye towards maintaining their national sovereignty while also developing their domestic economies, the countries of the Caspian region stand to benefit from careful and balanced engagement with their international partners.

The Caspian Policy Center has recently highlighted this increasing competition in its research work. In his&nbsp;<a href="https://www.caspianpolicy.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/The-Caspian-Basin-Why-It-Matters-In-Great-Power-Competition.pdf">January policy brief</a>, Major General (ret.) Michael Repass highlighted the strategic importance of the Caspian region in Great Power Competition. In other&nbsp;<a href="https://www.caspianpolicy.org/russias-historical-defense-ties-and-chinas-rising-military-presence-in-central-asia/">recent policy briefs</a>, we have surveyed the status of Chinese, Russian, European, and American power in Central Asia, and assessed the capabilities of the Russian and Chinese militaries in the region. At this event we will delve further into these topics with experts from the diplomatic, military, and academic communities to better understand how the United States and Caspian nations can approach this period of competition in the region.

International Actors in the Caspian Region

With the COVID-19 pandemic having persisted over a year, the economic state of the world has shifted considerably. Working remotely has become commonplace for many; the impacts of digitalization and information technologies became even more apparent. Disruptions to global supply chains and questions about whether countries need to manufacture more at home came into international and domestic policy debates. At the same time, sound economic principles remained crucial to national well-being and prosperity. The Caspian region has been no exception to these global trends. As&nbsp;economies around the world emerge from the shocks produced by the pandemic, it will be&nbsp;important that the countries of the Caspian region, like those elsewhere, pursue sound policies as they reopen and rebuild.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The Heritage Foundation&rsquo;s Economic Freedom Index&nbsp;provides indications of where countries stand in terms of economic policies that encourage growth, creativity and innovation, and greater prosperity. In a discussion with the Economic Freedom index&rsquo;s authors, the Caspian Policy Center will look at the results contained in this year&rsquo;s report, including why countries&rsquo; places changed in the rankings and what these findings may mean as countries of the Caspian region look for post-COVID economic transition.

Economic Freedom in the Caspian Region

As the Biden Administration develops policies for its relations with China, Iran, and Russia, it needs to consider how to engage more effectively its relations with the countries of Central Asia and the Caucasus. Often targets of ambitious neighboring powers seeking greater influence, leverage, and advantage, these countries on both sides of the Caspian Sea generally look for active, visible, and constructive engagement by the U.S. government as well as by American private-sector and academic institutions. Some of the Caspian region governments feel their ties with the United States weakened during the Trump Administration. The new Biden Administration is in a position to correct this situation and to advance U.S. interests in the region at the same time it addresses broader geostrategic questions.

The Caspian Policy Center has prepared a set of recommendations for more effective U.S. engagement with countries in Central Asia and the Caucasus. Looking at steps the United States could take in its diplomatic engagement with countries in the Greater Caspian region, in its information/public outreach and military-to- military programs, and in the spheres of economics and business, the Center has developed a roadmap for a more stable and prosperous Caspian region aligned with U.S. interests. In an online discussion on March 3, panelists will elaborate on the ways that the Biden administration can chart the best path forward in Central Asia and the South Caucasus in light of geostrategic trends and developments that have occurred in the region over the past four years.

A New Caspian Policy for the New Administration

On December 31, Azerbaijan started commercial natural gas exports to Europe via the U.S.-backed Southern Gas Corridor, helping the region to diversify supplies away from Russia.

Completion of the $40 billion Southern Gas Corridor marked an important milestone for U.S. diplomacy and European energy security as it was the culmination of several years of work with both public and private sectors, including different governments across the Caspian region, multinational energy companies, and several U.S. presidential administrations.

Alongside its vast contribution to the energy security of Europe, the completion of the Southern Gas Corridor also comes at a time of changing energy markets and increased focus on climate change.

On January 27,&nbsp;the Caspian Policy Center will bring together senior policy officials, corporate executives, and leading energy policy experts to discuss the completion of the Southern Gas Corridor project, how it fits with the evolving picture of the energy industry, and the possible next steps for the Caucasus and Central Asia&rsquo;s energy market.

This virtual event will be moderated by&nbsp;Ambassador (ret.) Robert F. Cekuta, Advisory Board Member&nbsp;at the Caspian Policy Center, and include keynote remarks by&nbsp;Francis R. Fannon, Former Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of Energy Resources at the U.S Department of State.

Completion of the Southern Gas Corridor: An American Diplomatic Success, But What Comes Next?

The war between Azerbaijan and Armenia, the Moscow-brokered November ceasefire, and the presence now of Russian forces in all three countries of the Caucasus are significant events in a part of the world where Russian, Chinese, Turkish, and Iranian policy objectives can collide with each other as well as with those of the United States and European countries. Moreover, while the November agreement may have stopped the fighting, it did not create peace. At the same time, the process is underway in the United States of transitioning to a new presidential administration on January 20, 2021. In charting out its foreign policy objectives, the Biden administration will need to examine this new situation in the Caucasus and its potential ramifications for Europe and Eurasia&rsquo;s security, stability, and prosperity. The Caspian Policy Center (CPC) and the Center of Analysis of International Relations (AIR Center) will convene a panel of experts from both the United States and Azerbaijan to discuss the future of U.S.-Azerbaijan relations in light of 2020&rsquo;s landmark events.

The Aftermath of the Karabakh War and the U.S. Presidential Transition: The Future of American-Azerbaijani Relations

Central Asia&rsquo;s scarcity of water resources poses critical questions for the region&rsquo;s future. As climate change leads to decreases in precipitation and higher levels of evaporation, Central Asia&rsquo;s water-intensive agricultural practices must be carefully examined. The region&rsquo;s unequal distribution of water and energy resources has often brought upstream and downstream countries into conflict. As water resources dwindle and demands for energy increase, addressing these issues will be vital to regional stability. With these threats growing by the year, cooperation on a meaningful level will be essential to managing the water resources responsibly and fairly.

The Caspian Policy Center will convene leading academic and policy experts to discuss the threats to Central Asia&rsquo;s water supply and potential solutions to these problems. The panel will speak about international cooperation in securing transboundary water resources, the relationship between energy generation and the water supply, and sustainable agricultural practices. This event is held in conjunction with the release of the Caspian Policy Center&rsquo;s Policy Brief, &ldquo;The Vital Resource: Water Management in Central Asia,&rdquo; which explores the precarious state of Central Asia&rsquo;s water resources and the opportunities it presents for cooperation.

The Vital Resource: Water Management in Central Asia

Since antiquity, Afghanistan has been part of what is now referred to as Central Asia &ndash; politically, economically, and culturally. The imperial contest over Central and South Asia by the Russian and British empires in the 19th century traumatically severed Afghanistan from Central Asia, with lasting and problematic consequences. Because of Soviet policy, in addition to severing historic political, cultural, and economic linkages between Afghanistan and Central Asia, Afghanistan was psychologically separated as well; with Central Asia being thought of as the five former Soviet Socialist Republics of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. This detachment has forced Afghanistan into a &ldquo;no man&rsquo;s land,&rdquo; with links to the Persian world, to South Asia, and to Central Asia, but belonging to none. The security of Afghanistan and its pertinence to Central Asia cannot be settled by the simple political exclusion of Afghanistan from Central Asia emerging from the demise of the Soviet empire. And neither can Afghanistan&rsquo;s economy or large population be ignored. To ensure the security and prosperity of not just Afghanistan, but of the post-Soviet Central Asian states, it is time to reintegrate Afghanistan into Central Asia.

The Caspian Policy Center will bring together academic and foreign policy experts to discuss the case for the full reintegration of Afghanistan into Central Asia. This event is held in conjunction with the release of the Caspian Policy Center&rsquo;s policy brief, &ldquo;Afghanistan as a Part of Central Asia? The Case for Reintegration,&rdquo; that explores the causes of Afghanistan&rsquo;s anomalous separation from Central Asia, why Afghanistan should be reintegrated into the region, complicating factors to this effect, and how they can be overcome. The experts will also discuss the United States&rsquo; role in facilitating this process.

Afghanistan as a Part of Central Asia? The Case for Reintegration

The Greater Caspian Region faces a rising demand for electricity from industrial, commercial, and individual consumers. Unreliable electrical supplies inhibit robust economic growth and present further challenges when attracting foreign direct investment. The need to improve energy infrastructure by incorporating renewables to ensure that private consumers and industries have reliable electricity for development is essential. The Caspian region has tremendous wind, solar, and hydropower potential that should be harnessed to meet these countries&rsquo; growing electricity needs. Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan possess large amounts of untapped renewable energy resources that would sufficiently meet growing electricity demands. Including renewables in infrastructure and energy discussions will be crucial to ensuring energy security and stability in a region long defined by its hydrocarbon wealth.

The Caspian Policy Center will convene experts from the renewables sector and financial institutions operating in the Caspian region to discuss the ways they can harness their vast hydro, solar, and wind, power potential. The discussion will cover the potential for renewable energy in these four Caspian countries and what still needs to be done to attain national renewable energy goals. This event is held in conjunction with the release of the Caspian Policy Center&rsquo;s Policy Brief, &ldquo;The Considerable Potential for Renewable Energy in the Caspian Region&rdquo; that explores renewable power as a vital part of the Caspian&rsquo;s future energy and infrastructure plans.

Unlocking the Renewable Energy Potential in the Caspian Region

Women&rsquo;s economic empowerment has proven to be one of the key factors in promoting economic growth, maintaining peace and stability, and ensuring an inclusive and sustainable environment. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has further highlighted the importance of advancing gender equality as women have been particularly vulnerable to disruptions in daily activities, especially in low- and middle- income countries. With more women than men being engaged in non-essential social services sectors, which have been heavily hit by containment measures, there has been a disproportionate loss of jobs and sources of income. As a result of the pandemic, gender digital divide is becoming pronounced with more women lacking adequate access to digital operations, which impedes their ability to engage in economic activities or transition to remote learning and working. Increase in family care responsibilities and unpaid household work has put an additional pressure on women&rsquo;s ability to pursue economic opportunities. In combination, all these adverse effects might pose considerable challenges for women&rsquo;s economic empowerment even in the aftermath of the pandemic.

The Caspian Policy Center will bring together international and regional experts and policymakers to discuss ways to advance women&rsquo;s economic empowerment in the Caspian region. Specific topics will include developing women&rsquo;s digital entrepreneurship and support for women-owned businesses, providing necessary vocational training and promoting education, and bridging gender divide in access to technology.

Women’s Economic Empowerment and Entrepreneurship in the Caspian Region

The Caspian region has become a hotspot for infrastructure investment over the last decade. With the region&rsquo;s strategic location at the juncture of Europe and Asia, and its wealth of natural resources, the Caspian has become a critical area for projects promoting global connectivity as well as local development. With its rising status as a hub for infrastructure investment, the Caspian is a region where the Blue Dot Network is of increasing relevance. With a gap between the amount of investment available and the Caspian region&rsquo;s anticipated funding needs to continue its development, the Blue Dot Network has the potential to raise the profile of projects that meet the Network&rsquo;s standards.

The Caspian Policy Center and U.S. Agency for International Development, in collaboration with the Embassies of Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Turkey, and Uzbekistan, will bring together policy experts from U.S. government agencies and private companies, as well as senior business representatives from the countries of the Caspian region. A high-level U.S. delegation, headed by Dr. Kaush Arha, U.S. G7 Sherpa for the Blue Dot Network and including representatives from the U.S. Development Financial Corporation and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, will lead the discussion on infrastructure development within the Blue Dot Network.

With a focus on private sector engagement, the event will explore the vital role the business community plays in strengthening regional integration through infrastructure and commerce. Using a roundtable format, the event will encourage dialogue and discussion between the agencies overseeing U.S. participation in the Blue Dot Network, government ministries in the Caspian region, and private enterprises.

Blue Dot Network: Building Strong Partnerships in the Caspian Region

Since it launched in 2019, the Blue Dot Network has provided a new angle to the current spree of global infrastructure development. What the Blue Dot Network intends to bring to the table is a trusted means of certifying the costly infrastructure projects that seek to revolutionize the rhythms of global commerce.&nbsp;With its goals of bringing together stakeholders from the private and public sectors to establish a shared framework for quality and market-driven global infrastructure ventures, the Blue Dot Network has the potential to help the Caspian region build a broad set of partners around the world. As the Network grows and becomes more defined, understanding it may be crucial to navigating the world of infrastructure investment and international&nbsp;development.

The Caspian Policy Center and the United States Agency for International Development, in collaboration with the Embassies of Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Turkey, and Uzbekistan, will bring together&nbsp;senior officials from the U.S. Department of State, U.S. International Development Finance Corporation, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, and&nbsp;ministerial-level&nbsp;representatives from the Caspian region&nbsp;to&nbsp;discuss economic policy and infrastructure development implications of the Blue Dot Network.&nbsp;The discussion will cover the Blue Dot Network&rsquo;s development since its inception and how it might grow in the future to address infrastructure needs in the Caspian region.&nbsp;

A Policy Discussion on the Blue Dot Network: Quality Infrastructure and Capital Investments in the Caspian

Increasing regional cooperation between the Caspian&rsquo;s Eastern and Western shores is a promising trend for the region and the United States. Initially started with connectivity projects, this cooperation not only mitigates COVID-19-related trade disruptions but also emerges as a critical stabilizing factor in this strategically important region. This has also become a key conduit of U.S. assistance to Afghanistan and the latter&rsquo;s development. However, recent events have highlighted the urgent need for and value of strengthening such cooperation in light of growing challenges. The onset of COVID-19 pandemic coupled with substantially depressed energy prices put additional pressure on regional governments in light of the terrorism problem in neighboring regions, exacerbating global competition as well as existing and potential conflicts. In combination, these developments could cause large-scale upheaval in the regional security landscape.

The Caspian Policy Center will bring together high-level regional security policy specialists as well as senior representatives of the U.S. Departments of Defense and State to discuss the situation in the region. Specific topics will include sharing experiences and best practices in securing borders and societies during the pandemic, facilitating a more effective regional response to transnational challenges, and opportunities and need for bolstering regional and broader international cooperation.

The Caspian Region in the COVID-19 Era: Implications for Security Policy and Regional Cooperation

Defining certain foreign policies has been a topic of debate, discussion, contingency, analysis, and lots of writing. Think tanks approach these definition efforts from different lenses: historic, scholarly, functional, political, etc.

The Greater Caspian Region countries follow a foreign policy that was first labeled by Kazakhstan as multi-vector, which&nbsp;means&nbsp;to find a balance in its&nbsp;relations with Russia, China, the European Union, and the United States.

That said, due to&nbsp;today&rsquo;s rapidly changing global geopolitical environment&nbsp;and COVID-19-induced economic and social disruptions, it becomes increasingly challenging to balance foreign relations with multiple partners that have diverging regional agendas.

On July 30, the Caspian Policy Center (CPC) will bring together leading research think tanks based in Washington and the Caspian to discuss the current geopolitical dynamics of the U.S. presence in the strategically-located Caspian region.

A Think-Tank Forum: The United States and the Caspian Region

Price shocks, supply overhangs, complex international dealings among governments of oil-producing countries, cutbacks in planned investments in oil and gas production and exploration, a rise in competitive renewable energy production technologies, and corporate restructurings &ndash; the international oil and gas sector has faced a variety of challenges over the first six months of 2020. The continuing global COVID-19 pandemic is another factor affecting the sector directly as well as through its impacts on the global economy. Yet energy security has been and remains a critical factor in countries&rsquo; national security calculations and in the overall international relations agenda with the Trans-Caspian region playing an important role as a supplier and a transportation route for oil and natural gas.

The Caspian Policy Center will host a virtual panel discussion among senior government and corporate figures to look at current and expected changes and their potential effects. Particular topics will include the region&rsquo;s continued role in the global energy security picture and the impact the COVID-19 pandemic is having in that regard, the U.S.-Caspian and intra-regional cooperation amid the pandemic crisis, the current energy transition, and further utilization of renewable sources of energy.

Webinar: Trans-Caspian as a Global Hub for Energy Supplies, Security, and Sustainability

The countries of the Caspian region face difficult economic issues as a result of the global pandemic but can also use this situation to make decisions that positively shape their future wellbeing. The current difficulties are real; as the IMF World Economic Outlook 2020 notes, &ldquo;As a result of the pandemic, the global economy is projected to contract sharply by 3 percent in 2020, much worse than during the 2008&ndash;09 financial crisis.&rdquo; Governments have launched various fiscal and other policy responses to reduce the effects of the economic crisis. Global financial institutions and international organizations have initiated technical assistance and financial support to help countries recover from the economic impacts of COVID-19.

As challenging as the current situation is, governments and international institutions are also keeping an eye on how to position countries as the global economy reopens. Strong cooperation, coordination, and assistance on both global and regional scale will be important to the Caspian region&rsquo;s recovery as will policies based on sound economic principles. Steps taken today, e.g. to take advantage of the focus on the need to strengthen and diversify supply chains, will be crucial to Caspian countries&rsquo; effective recovery as well as to their future competitiveness in what may well be an altered global economy.

The Caspian Policy Center, in coordination with the Embassies of Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Turkey, and Uzbekistan, will bring together ministerial-level representatives as well as senior representatives of the U.S. government and international financial institutions, including the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation and the International Monetary Fund, and foreign policy specialiststo discussthe situation in the region and prospects for recovery and resilience of their economies in the face of the pandemic. Specific topics will include the economic effects of the COVID-19 and sharing thoughts on concrete steps the countries can and should take for the region&rsquo;s economic recovery. The conference will be an opportunity to explore actions the countries and international entities can use to bolster cooperation, financial support, technical assistance and capacity building collaboration in response to the damage caused by the pandemic.

WEBINAR: COVID-19 in the Caspian Region: Implications for Economic Well-Being and Growth

The countries of the Caspian region are facing severe public health challenges posed by the spread of the global COVID-19 pandemic. Effectively addressing these challenges requires a holistic approach and strong cooperation both within the region and with global partners. The Caspian Policy Center, in coordination with the Embassies of Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Turkey, and Uzbekistan, will bring together ministerial-level public health representatives as well as senior representatives of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and foreign policy specialists to discuss the situation in the region. Specific topics will include sharing experiences and best practices in containing the pandemic, facilitating an effective health policy response, and opportunities and need for bolstering regional and broader international cooperation.

WEBINAR: COVID-19 in the Caspian Region: Implications for Health Policy

The Caspian Policy Center and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce are bringing together ministerial-level representatives, business leaders, and decision makers to examine the global energy economy, and the technologies, policies, and supply shifts that shape the global energy market.

In recognition of the 25th anniversary of the&nbsp;&ldquo;Contract of the Century,&rdquo;&nbsp;this year&rsquo;s forum will celebrate the achievements in the Caspian Region&rsquo;s oil sector, and serve as an ideal platform for establishing crucial business ties. The event will foster new avenues and opportunities for mutual cooperation between the United States and the Greater Caspian Region.

Contract of the Century: Building on 25 Years of Success

The Caspian Policy Center (CPC), along with the embassies of Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Turkey and Uzbekistan, is bringing together ministerial-level representatives, business and government leaders, and entrepreneurs to enhance the strategic engagement of the United States in the Caspian region and explore business and investment opportunities to the benefit of all concerned.

Building on the strategic partnerships forged between the United States and the Caspian countries and emerging business potential of the region, the second Caspian Business Forum presents a leading platform to discuss the U.S. engagement in the Caspian region, investments and financial relationship opportunities, and innovations to benefit both sides and the business community concerned.

Caspian Business Forum II

The Trans-Caspian Trade and Transit Corridor is a regional integrator, trade facilitator, and viable transit connector between Europe and Asia. Comprising of Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Turkey to the west, and Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Afghanistan to the east of the Caspian Sea, this corridor brings together more than 200 million strong market and 400 billion in overall trade while connecting economies of the European Union and China along with access to Russia, Iran, Pakistan, and India.

Connecting trade, people, and economies, the modern Trans-Caspian corridor has matured to strategic importance with an extensive and integrated network of infrastructure, special economic zones, harmonized customs, cross-border procedures, and more along this route.

The United States has been playing an important role in the development of this corridor through joint initiatives to increase regional connectivity through oil and gas pipelines, to facilitate intra-regional cooperation and trade such as the Baku-TbilisiCeyhan oil pipeline, Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway, Southern Gas Corridor, Lapis-Lazuli transport route and &ldquo;C5+1&rdquo; format. While these initiatives contributed to the increased business between the United States and the corridor countries concerned, the emerging business potential of the corridor is underexplored and trade with the U.S. is significantly lagging behind in comparison with the EU and China.

Building on the strategic partnerships forged between the U.S. and the corridor countries concerned and emerging business potential of the region, the 4th TransCaspian Forum presents a leading platform to discuss the U.S. engagement with the strategically important Trans-Caspian corridor including investments and development of strategic infrastructure for benefiting the U.S., the corridor countries and the business community concerned.

Policy and business leaders from the U.S. and the Trans-Caspian corridor countries come together at the Trans-Caspian Forum to discuss opportunities and challenges in enhancing their strategic engagement and explore business, trade, and investment opportunities to the benefit of all concerned. The Caspian Policy Center and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce are the co-organizers of the Forum, along with the Embassies of Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Turkey, and Uzbekistan.

Trans Caspian Forum 2019

The Trans-Caspian East-West Trade and Transit Corridor is a regional integrator, trade facilitator and viable transit connector between Europe and Asia. Comprising of Azerbaijan, Georgia and Turkey to the west, and Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan Uzbekistan and Afghanistan to the east of the Caspian Sea, this corridor brings together more than 200 million strong market and 400 billion in overall trade while connecting economies of the European Union and China along with access to Russia, Iran, Pakistan and India.

Connecting trade, people and economies, the modern trans-Caspian corridor has matured to strategic importance with an extensive and integrated network of infrastructure, special economic zones, harmonized customs, cross-border procedures and more along this route.

The United States has been playing an important role in the development of this corridor through joint initiatives to increase regional connectivity through oil and gas pipelines, to facilitate intra-regional cooperation and trade such as the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan oil pipeline, Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway, Southern Gas Corridor, Lapis-Lazuli transport route and &ldquo;C5+1&rdquo; format. While these initiatives contributed to the increased business between the United States and the corridor countries concerned, the emerging business potential of the corridor is underexplored and trade with the US is significantly lagging behind in comparison with the EU and China.

Building on the strategic partnerships forged between the USA and the corridor countries concerned and emerging business potential of the region, the Trans-Caspian Forum presents a leading platform to discuss the US engagement with the strategically important TransCaspian corridor including investments and development of strategic infrastructure for benefiting the US, the corridor countries and the business community concerned.

Policy and business leaders from the USA and the Trans-Caspian corridor countries will come together at Third Trans-Caspian Forum on 17-18 May 2018 to discuss opportunities and challenges in enhancing their strategic engagement and explore business, trade and investment opportunities to the benefit of all concerned. Within the Forum framework, discussions will be held in the premises of the US Congress in partnership with the Central Asia and Caucasus Institute, the US Chamber of Commerce. The George Washington University will also host academic discussions to stimulate intellectual exchange on the way ahead.

The Caspian Policy Center and the US Chamber of Commerce are the co-organizers of the Forum along with the Embassies of Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Turkey, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan.

TRANS CASPIAN FORUM 2018

The Caspian Policy Center (CPC) and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce were the co-organizers of the 1st Caspian Business Forum New York along with the Embassies of Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kazakhstan, and Turkmenistan.

The Caspian Business Forum New York brought together the policy and business leaders from the U.S. and the Caspian region corridor countries to discuss opportunities and challenges in enhancing their strategic engagement and explore business and finance opportunities to the benefit of all concerned.

Connecting businesses, people, and economies, the Caspian Business Forum New York presented an extensive and integrated network of business infrastructure, special financial zones, and cross-border investment opportunities.

The United States has been playing an important role in the development of the Caspian region through joint initiatives to increase regional connectivity through oil and gas pipelines, to facilitate intra-regional cooperation and trade such as the Baku-Tbilisi- Ceyhan oil pipeline, Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway, Southern Gas Corridor, Lapis-Lazuli transport route and &ldquo;C5+1&rdquo; format. While these initiatives contributed to the increased business between the United States and the corridor countries concerned, the emerging business potential of the Caspian region is under-explored and trade with the U.S. is significantly lagging behind in comparison with the EU and China.

Building on the strategic partnerships forged between the U.S. and the Caspian countries concerned and emerging business potential of the region, the 1st Caspian Business Forum New York presented a leading platform to discuss the U.S. engagement with the strategically important Caspian region countries, including investments and financial relationship development, for benefiting both sides and the business community concerned.

CASPIAN BUSINESS FORUM NEW YORK 2018

On November 7, 2018, the Caspian Policy Center, together with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the Embassies of Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Turkey, and Turkmenistan, will be organizing the U.S.-Caspian Innovation Summit in Boston, Massachusetts. The Summit will bring together high-level representatives from both the government and the private sector.

The academics, business community, and government officials from the United States and Trans-Caspian states will come together to examine and discuss how coherence, complementarity, and synergy between the multiple actors (government, industry, academia) involved and different levels of action (local, national, regional, and global) can be enhanced in order to promote engagement and sustainable collaboration with Boston&rsquo;s unique startup and entrepreneurship ecosystem. A variety of country and regional perspectives will be shared, and participants will benefit from hearing active debates on the pros and cons of various approaches.

The Summit will focus on insights and experiences around innovation, processes, startup incentives, and R&amp;D efforts in the Boston area and the Caspian Region. Speakers and panels will discuss and assess industry needs, to identify requirements, timeframes, investment opportunities, and challenges around the building and expanding proper innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystems in Trans-Caspian states. The Summit will prepare you with the right insights and contacts in order to make better informed decisions about how to get involved in innovative programs and projects in the near future.

Check transcaspianforum.org and follow us on Facebook and Twitter to get the latest updates on this year&rsquo;s forum.

CONNECT WITH US!

U.S.- Caspian Innovation Summit

The Central Asia and Caspian Sea basin is an important, if often overlooked, region in regard to many of the challenges the U.S. faces around the world, such as a resurgent Russia, an emboldened Iran, wavering allies, growing China, and the rise of Islamic extremism. The region is at the heart of the Eurasian continent, and anything that is at the heart of something is, by definition, important. The region is a crucial geographical and cultural crossroads linking Europe and Asia and has proven strategically important for military and economic reasons for centuries. There are many opportunities for the U.S. to engage more in the region in a way that advances America&rsquo;s national interests. However, there are many challenges that stand in the way, too. What role should America have in the region under the new Trump Administration? How can the U.S. better engage with partners in the region on issues like energy security, counterterrorism or even Afghanistan? Join us for discussion of these questions and more.

Security and Economic Development. Silk Road and the Caspian

South Caucasus: The Threats and Challenges for the Trump Administration

This event, hosted by the Heritage Foundation, brought together Dr. Ariel Cohen, Efgan Niftiyev, of the Caspian Policy Center, and Luke Coffey to discuss the strategic importance of the South Caucasus. The discussion was wide ranging, covering issues related to illegally occupied territory in the region to economic developments to the involvement of Russia and China and showed the importance of the South Caucasus to US foreign policy.

The Heritage Foundation described this event by saying:

&ldquo;The South Caucasus sits at a crucial geographical and cultural crossroads and has proven to be strategically important for military and economic reasons for centuries. Today, this strategic location is also important to the United States. Whether it is Armenian forces in Azerbaijan or Russian forces in Georgia, there are approximately 15,500 square miles of illegally occupied territory in the South Caucasus. This month marks the one year anniversary of the brief four-day war in Nagorno Karabakh. Russia continues its creeping occupation and annexation of the Georgian regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. Important pipelines transit the region carrying oil and gas from the Caspian to European markets. As Europeans try to become less dependent on Russian energy sources these pipelines will become increasingly important. However distant the South Caucasus might seem to U.S. policymakers, the region is important and cannot be ignored.&rdquo;

South Caucasus

Check out these great past events hosted by the Caspian Policy Center. For more events we have planned, check out our Upcoming Events page and be sure to subscribe to the Caspian Policy Center for updates.

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