On September 28, 2026, the International University of Central Asia (IUCA) welcomed Muratbek Abakirovich Azymbakiev, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kyrgyz Republic to the Swiss Confederation, for a guest lecture with university students.

The lecture, titled “The System of International Relations: Geopolitics, Geoeconomics, Challenges and Opportunities for the Formation of the Identity of International Relations Actors — the Case of Kyrgyzstan,” provided students with an opportunity to examine contemporary international processes through the perspective of professional diplomatic practice.

The discussion focused on geopolitics and geoeconomics, transformations in the international environment, challenges facing states, and opportunities for countries to shape and project their identity on the international stage.

Particular attention was devoted to Kyrgyzstan as an independent actor in international relations. Students explored how the country’s geographical position, national interests, foreign policy priorities, and participation in international cooperation influence its role within the contemporary international system.

Muratbek Azymbakiev’s extensive diplomatic experience added a strong practical dimension to the lecture. He has served within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kyrgyz Republic since 1993 and has held positions at Kyrgyzstan’s missions to the United Nations in New York and Geneva, the Embassy of Kyrgyzstan in India, and the central office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. From 2021 to 2022, he served as Deputy Secretary-General of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. In August 2026, he was appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kyrgyz Republic to the Swiss Confederation.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Muratbek Azymbakiev presented the University with a copy of his book, “Bridges, Not Walls: Notes of a Diplomat. Speaking Honestly About Complex Issues” («Мосты, а не стены: записки дипломата. Честно о сложном»). The book will enrich the University’s library and provide students with an additional opportunity to explore international relations and diplomatic practice through the professional perspective of an experienced diplomat.

For students, particularly those enrolled in the International Relations program, the meeting provided an opportunity to connect theoretical knowledge with the practical experience of a professional diplomat and to engage directly with issues related to their future careers.

Guest lectures by practicing diplomats form an important part of IUCA’s practice-oriented approach to education, helping students broaden their professional outlook, strengthen analytical thinking, and gain a deeper understanding of the practical mechanisms of contemporary diplomacy and international relations.