CAREC Institute Deputy Director Kuat Akizhanov Attends FinGeo Workshop on Central Asian Financial Geography

Dr. Kuat Akizhanov, Deputy Director Two of the CAREC Institute, took part in the online workshop hosted by the Global Network on Financial Geography (FinGeo) on May 19, 2026, joining academic discussions on the financial geography and regional development of Central Asia.

Titled “Financial Geography in Central Asia: Research Agenda for Regional Development and Financial Integration,” the academic workshop brought together scholars to discuss relevant research topics in Central Asian financial geography. In recent years, Central Asia has carried out financial sector reforms, attracted increased foreign direct investment, expanded infrastructure financing, and strengthened regional and global economic connectivity. Compared with the region’s ongoing economic changes, relevant academic research on the spatial layout and differentiated development of its financial systems remains limited.

During the workshop, Dr. Akizhanov presented “Heterodox Approaches to Development in Central Asia.” He offered alternative viewpoints beyond conventional research frameworks, highlighting development approaches tailored to Central Asia’s unique institutional and geographic conditions, and discussed relevant topics with other scholars.

With diverse inputs from participating scholars, the workshop facilitated interdisciplinary exchange and advanced research discussions on Central Asia’s financial geography and regional economic development.