DUSHANBE, 13.05.2025 (NIAT Khovar) – The first meeting of education ministers of China and Central Asia was held on May 12 in Chinese city of Urumqi.

Delegations delivered reports addressing current issues in the development of education and emphasized the need to expand educational integration.

In his remarks, Rahim Saidzoda, the Minister of Education and Science of Tajikistan, noted that in the context of rapid globalization and shifting geopolitical realities, education and scientific research take on particular importance as key drivers of societal development.

It was underscored that the initiative of China to launch the “China–Central Asia” format provides broad opportunities for dialogue and the exchange of effective educational practices among the countries.

The participants highlighted the necessity of coordinating education systems, expanding joint projects, developing shared academic programs, increasing academic mobility for students and faculty, promoting lifelong learning, and advancing scientific and practical cooperation in the field of innovative technologies.

During the event, the Regulations on the China–Central Asia Education Ministers’ Meeting Mechanism and the Urumqi Declaration were adopted. These documents outline the main directions for future cooperation and emphasize the importance of foreign language learning, scientific research, and the training of highly qualified engineers and competitive professionals.

The meeting also featured the launch of several joint initiatives, including the establishment of the China–Central Asia Education–Industry Integration Alliance, the opening of an International Institute for Teacher Training, the inauguration of an International Medical Center in Astana, the launch of several joint scientific laboratories, and the signing of multiple memorandums and agreements between educational institutions of the participating countries.