Trends Research and Advisory and the International Institute for Cultural Diplomacy (IICD), announced that they shall convene their first joint conference on February 26, under the theme “Modern Diplomacy in the Global Age: New Perspectives and Implications for UAE-central Asia Cooperation”. The announcement was made in a media briefing held at the Grand Conference Hall at Trends headquarters in Abu Dhabi. The event was attended by Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Al-Ali, CEO of Trends Research and Advisory, Dr. Mohammad Kamel Al-Maeini, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the International Institute for Cultural Diplomacy, Dr.Awadh Saleh the Cultural Advisor and Sumaya Al-Hadrami, Deputy Head of Trends Global. It was also attended by a group of researchers, media reporters and officials from both sides. Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Al-Ali said that the conference, which will be held at ten in the morning next Monday. It will focus on the role of diplomacy in an interdependent and competitive world: challenges and opportunities. He indicated that the conference shall discuss relations between the United Arab Emirates and Central Asia, to open new horizons for cooperation between the two sides. Dr. Al Ali expressed his hope that this conference is meant to enhance bilateral relations between the UAE and Central Asian countries, and opens new horizons for mutual cooperation in various fields. Dr. Al-Ali stressed that scientific research is one of the most important tools that can be used to strengthen relations between countries, especially in light of the challenges facing the world today. He indicated that Trends Center recognizes the significance of scientific research in promoting relations and bridging the gap between the cultures and civilizations of different countries. He explained that the conference shall emphasize this role in strengthening international relations, exchanging experiences and promoting knowledge. Dr. Mohamed Kamel Al-Maeini expressed his pleasure at convening this joint conference with Trends Research and Advisory. He said that the conference provides scientific insights that help us understand the challenges and opportunities facing relations between the UAE and Central Asian countries. The conference attempts to find innovative solutions to enhance cooperation between the two sides. Dr. Mohamed Kamel Al-Maeini said that this conference represents an opportunity to build bridges of communication and explore new horizons for cooperation in various fields. He praised the role played by the UAE in spreading cultural diplomacy. Dr. Al-Muaini also praised the fruitful cooperation between the (IICD) and Trends, stressing the significance of this joint cooperation in organizing more events and activities. Sumaya Al-Hadrami indicated that the conference is the first of its kind between the UAE and Central Asian countries. It is the first event of activating the cooperation agreement between Trends and the International Institute for Cultural Diplomacy. She explained that the conference will include 3 working sessions. Ambassadors of the six Central Asian countries, namely Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, will participate in this discussion. The discussion shall include experts and academics who shall address relations between the UAE and Central Asian countries. She said that a round table will also be held at the end of the conference that brings the diplomats and experts to exchange views on how to improve these relations and emphasize the importance of cultural diplomacy. Sumaya Al Hadrami stated that the themes of the sessions will focus on the future of diplomacy in a new global landscape, including the impact of artificial intelligence and modern media. The participants shall discuss capacity building and the latest trends in diplomatic training for the foreign service staff. Issues of promoting peace, dialogue, education and cultural exchange in today’s world shall be addressed. The discussion shall cover the role of modern methodologies and innovative strategies, cooperation between the UAE and Central Asia in educating and engaging the next generation of diplomats, and cultural and public diplomacy as tools to build bridges between the UAE and other countries. The main theme of discussion shall include strengthening relations between the UAE and Central Asia in the fields of economy, energy, trade and investment. Dr. Dr.Awadh Saleh, said that Trends has become a cultural platform for generations, by empowering young people and preparing them for the future. He explained that cultural diplomacy is an important tool in human dialogue and bilateral cooperation. He expressed his pleasure at Trends’ convening of this joint conference with the (IICD). The event reflects an advanced awareness of the role of cultural diplomacy in international relations.