The CAREC Institute hosted its 5th Annual Research Conference on May 29–30 under the theme “CAREC Connectivity: Promoting Trade and Trade Facilitation.” The prestigious event brought together leading policymakers, academics, and industry experts to discuss avenues for deepening cooperation across the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC) region.

Prof. Ahsan Iqbal, Pakistan’s Minister for Planning Development and Reforms, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, emphasizing the importance of regional collaboration for sustainable development. Co-organized with a diverse range of partners including the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), Pakistan Single Window (PSW), and the ECO Science Foundation (ECOSF), the conference served as a flagship knowledge-sharing platform in the region.

Representing ECOSF, President Prof. Seyed Komail Tayebi and Programs Manager for Energy & Climate Mr. Khalil Raza actively contributed to the discussions. The President ECOSF was interviewed by the CAREC media explaining the effectiveness of the conference on development process of member countries. The conference aimed to synthesize regional knowledge efforts and attract global partnerships to support high-quality research collaborations. Its key objectives included promoting green and resilient infrastructure, facilitating trade and transit between South Asia and Central Asia, and advancing data-driven policy solutions. During the conference, Mr. Khalil Raza Programs Manager ECOSF delivered his presentation on Decarbonizing Road Transport Sector with focus on promoting the Electric Mobility in the CAREC region.

The two-day event featured thematic sessions, engaging panel discussions, and comprehensive opening and closing ceremonies. Participants delved into pressing regional priorities such as climate resilience, institutional collaboration, and trade facilitation strategies. The conference underscored the critical role of connectivity in fostering both economic growth and sustainability within the CAREC region.

As stakeholders left the conference inspired and equipped with actionable insights, the annual event reaffirmed its reputation as a cornerstone for fostering regional partnerships and paving the way for a more integrated future.