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Trump Administration and the U.S. – China Competition in Central Asia
In the last years, and especially now during Trump Administration, both the United States and the People’s Republic of China have competed in Central Asia because of the region’s strategic role in the Eurasian geopolitical chessboard.
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Impact of Turkey-Azerbaijan-Uzbekistan Trilateral Cooperation on the Post-Soviet Space
This report examines the outcomes of the second trilateral meeting Turkey-Azerbaijan-Uzbekistan held in Ankara on January 29th, 2025. The meeting focused on advancing cooperation in trade, investment, and transport, with particular attention to the development of the Middle Corridor as a vital trade route between Asia and Europe.
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Tajikistan: Prison Riot and the Rising Islamic State Threats
Tajik security forces suppressed an attempted prison break in Vahdat’s Colony No. 3/2, where Islamic State supporters staged a coordinated attack on guards. Official reports indicate that security forces killed three insurgents and detained the rest, though images suggest a higher casualty count.
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Iran and Tajikistan Forged a Strategic Alliance with 22 New Agreements
In January 2025, Iran and Tajikistan significantly deepened their bilateral ties by signing 22 memorandums of understanding (MoUs) during high-level meetings in Dushanbe. These agreements span multiple sectors, including trade, energy, infrastructure, cultural exchange, and security. This development represents a pivotal moment in their diplomatic relationship, marked by the restoration of trust and mutual interest…
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Uzbekistan: Economic Growth in 2024 Amidst Local and Regional Challenges
This report examines Uzbekistan’s economic performance in 2024, focusing on trade dynamics, sectoral developments, and key geopolitical considerations. It highlights the country’s efforts to modernise its economy under President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s leadership, supported by structural reforms and strategic international partnerships.
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How Kazakhstan’s Interest in Bulgaria’s Energy Market Might Affect Russia’s Local Influence
This report examines how Kazakhstan’s strategic move in Bulgaria’s energy market affects the regional geopolitical balance, considering Russia’s local influence and political developments.
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Sayfiddin Tajibayev’s Role in the Syrian Defence Apparatus: Repercussions for Tajikistan and Central Asia
Sayfiddin Tajibayev’s appointment to a senior position in the Syrian Ministry of Defence highlights a serious security risk to Tajikistan and Central Asia. This development could catalyse the movement of more extremists from Central Asia to Syria, facilitating the establishment of new foreign fighter networks and training centres.
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Mongolia: SWOT Analysis
This SWOT analysis, based on local and international sources and previous SpecialEurasia’s reports, should assist policymakers and stakeholders in assessing Mongolia’s strategic position and identifying the country’s strengths, weakness, opportunities, and threats.
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Threat Assessment of Post-Assad Syria’s Impact on Central Asia
This report synthesises international and local data, together with previous SpecialEurasia assessments, to analyse the consequences of Assad’s downfall in Syria and the potential contribution of Central Asian foreign fighters.
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Assessing Tehran-Bishkek’s Trade Via Iran’s Southern Ports
Recent agreements to develop a Eurasian logistics hub in Iran’s southern ports underscore Bishkek’s need for maritime access, while Tehran positions itself as a regional economic hub to mitigate sanctions and increase its influence in Central Asia.
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Analysis: Russia-Kyrgyzstan Relations and Strategic Partnership
This report explores Russia’s influence in Kyrgyzstan, concentrating on economic, military, and socio-cultural ties while acknowledging the competition from regional players like China and Turkey.
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Geopolitics and Strategy of China-Mongolia-Russia Economic Corridor (CMREC)
The China-Mongolia-Russia Economic Corridor (CMREC) initiative, set for deployment in the latter half of the 2020s, represents a trilateral ambition to fortify regional economic integration and elevate transnational trade efficiency across Eurasia.
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Chinese Expansion in Central Asia Through Kyrgyzstan’s Logistic Hubs and Railways
The construction of the At-Bashy Trade and Logistics Centre and the proposed China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan (CKU) railway underscores Beijing’s aim to enhance trade connectivity, bypass traditional routes through Russia, and consolidate its influence in Central Asia.
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Kuwait and Tajikistan: A Developing Partnership in Security and Economic Affairs
This report analyses the recent diplomatic developments and economic cooperation initiatives between Tajikistan and Kuwait following President Emomali Rahmon’s official visit to Kuwait from November 3rd-5th, 2024.
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Uzbekistan’s 2024 Parliamentary Elections: Context, Reforms, and Geopolitical Implications
The 2024 parliamentary elections in Uzbekistan signify a major step in the country’s political development, highlighting domestic stability and Tashkent’s stable governance. The elections demonstrated a stable participation rate of over 71.5% and marked the conclusion of a new phase of constitutional reforms, backed by the Central Election Commission (CEC).