Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation

Spotlight CAREC: Capacity Building

Capacity Building

ADB and the multi-lateral institution partners are assisting the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC) countries and Turkmenistan in regional economic cooperation by sharing knowledge through capacity building activities. The objective is to build a shared understanding between about 600 senior and mid level officials to support the work of the CAREC senior officials' meetings, sector committees, and second tier projects as defined in the CAREC Comprehensive Action Plan.

One aspect of regional economic cooperation is the development and negotiation of policies, action plans and projects. However, without the tools to support effective implementation they will not have the opportunity to be effectively implemented. This is where the activities of capacity building and the formation of common understandings between the senior and mid level officials of CAREC countries have a crucial role.

ADB on behalf of CAREC recently conducted a training needs assessment (TNA) of the CAREC countries. The TNA consisted of a survey questionnaire that solicits information about training activities in general, as well as demand for specific training programs. It also comprised of in-country workshops in CAREC countries to generate more qualitative responses to specific demand for training programs. These activities will guide the capacity building activities of CAREC from 2008 - 2010.