Financing regional cooperation through the Heart of Asia process

The Heart of Asia–Istanbul Process required a sustainable funding approach for regional cooperation. Advisory work for the European Commission examined pooled finance, cost-sharing and resource mobilisation, informed by field research in Kabul and diplomatic consultations with participating states and international donors.

Context and purpose

The Heart of Asia–Istanbul Process brings participating states and development partners together around regional cooperation. The assignment examined how a more predictable funding model could sustain that cooperation while accommodating different national priorities.

The work

Field research in Kabul and consultations with ambassadors, embassy staff and donors informed an assessment of pooled funding, cost-sharing and resource mobilisation. Financing options were compared and prepared for official discussion, including the Senior Officials meeting in New Delhi.

Outputs and use

Alternative financing proposals gave participating officials a basis for discussing how to fund the regional process. The proposals clarified institutional and financial choices; their preparation did not establish that a new mechanism had been adopted.