Category: Central Asia
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Intel Report: Fergana Valley and Regional Security
The last meeting in Fergana between the heads of the security services of Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan accentuated the countries’ desire to cooperate in regional security to face cross-border challenges, such as terrorism and extremism.
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Intelligence Brief: Afghanistan Between Security Threats and Regional Economic Cooperation
This intelligence brief provides timely information on recent events in Afghanistan, including the attack on a mosque in Herat province and developments in transit and trade infrastructure, as well as potential cooperation in the mining sector between Kazakhstan and Afghanistan.
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Intel Report: Russia’s Transport Strategy in Central Asia
Recent developments show significant shifts in transportation and trade routes linking Europe, Asia, and the Persian Gulf. Russia’s investment in transport corridors through Iran and the Arctic, alongside developments in the Turkmenbashi port, signifies a strategic move to reshape regional trade dynamics.
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Italy-Tajikistan Strengthened Cooperation in Different Fields
President Emomali Rahmon’s recent official visit to Italy signifies a significant step forward in Tajikistan’s diplomatic relations, underlining the nation’s strategic engagement with Italy across various domains, including political, economic, trade, cultural, humanitarian, and security spheres.
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Assessment Report: British Foreign Secretary’s Visit to Central Asia
The visit of David Cameron, the British Foreign Minister, to Central Asia, marks a significant development in relations between the UK and the region. With a focus on the geopolitical implications, this report examines Cameron’s visit and offers insights into the potential risks and opportunities it presents for both the UK and the Central Asian states.
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Secular Uzbekistan’s Struggle with Islamic Terrorism
Since the collapse of the Soviet Union, Islam has played a new role in the nation-building process in the Central Asian Republic of Uzbekistan. The region is witnessing a rising popularity of radical Salafi Islamism, marked by its fervent pursuit of overthrowing secular governments.
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Enhancing Regional Security: Russia-Tajikistan Joint Anti-Terrorism Exercises
Russia and Tajikistan are currently engaged in joint counterterrorism exercises, which have become even more crucial because of the rise in terrorist activities in Afghanistan. This partnership between Moscow and Dushanbe highlights their commitment to enhancing military and defence cooperation.
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High-Level Meeting Between Central Asian and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Countries
The high-level meeting in Tashkent between Central Asian and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries presents an opportunity to strengthen regional cooperation amidst developing geopolitical challenges.
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Kazakhstan: A PESTEL Analysis
This PESTEL analysis delves into the key factors influencing Kazakhstan’s environment, providing insights for decision-makers seeking to navigate the complexities and capitalise on opportunities in the region.
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Kyrgyzstan: Investment Opportunities and Challenges
Kyrgyzstan presents a nuanced landscape for prospective investors, marked by a blend of promising prospects and enduring challenges. Its rich reservoir of metal resources, burgeoning tourism sector, and strategic positioning along the historic Silk Road attract potential investment ventures.
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Turkmenistan: A SWOT Analysis
Turkmenistan, at the crossroads of civilisations, embodies a rich tapestry of history, geopolitics, and natural resources. This comprehensive SWOT analysis delves into Turkmenistan’s geopolitical scenario, strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats, offering insights into the nation’s complex dynamics and future prospects.
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Analysis of The Voice of Khurasan First Issue in the Tajik Language
The recent publication of the first issue of The Voice of Khurasan in the Tajik language (Sadoi Khurasan) underlined the Islamic State Wilayat Khurasan’s strategy to interest Tajik speakers in Central Asia and increase the pressure against Dushanbe’s government.
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China-Russia Competition in Kyrgyzstan’s Investment Market
The landscape of foreign direct investment (FDI) in Kyrgyzstan highlights the China-Russia competition in the Central Asian republic with China emerging as the principal investor, surpassing Russia and Kazakhstan.
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Time for “Green” Extractives in Central Asia? How Turkmenistan can Become the Next Critical Raw Materials Powerhouse
Turkmenistan shows substantially promising potential to hold similar and even more diverse reserves of all the critical raw materials needed to power the energy transition, which can bring prosperity to the Central Asian nation and put it at the epicentre of the green energy system.
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Can Hairatan – Mazar-e-Sharif Railway Revitalise Uzbekistan-Afghanistan’s Trade and Economy?
The inauguration of the Hairatan-Mazar-e-Sharif railway line, celebrated at the Uzbekistan-Afghanistan border, represents a significant advancement in regional infrastructure. However, concerns persist regarding the Taliban’s ability to ensure stability amidst heightened security threats since their takeover in August 2021.
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Central Asia’s Security Risk Assessment
Central Asia stands at a geopolitical crossroads, grappling with several challenges that pose significant threats to its security and stability. This report dissects the multifaceted security threats and geopolitical risks facing Central Asia, analysing the roles of key players and proposing strategies to safeguard national interests.
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Analysis of UAE Interests in Turkmenistan and Central Asia
The recent meeting between representatives of Turkmenistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) underscored the positive trajectory of their bilateral relations, encompassing political, trade-economic, and cultural-humanitarian domains.
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Karakalpakstan: Geopolitics and Investments Projects
Despite Uzbekistan’s efforts to encourage local investments and provide fiscal incentives for economic development at the local and regional level, Karakalpakstan remains a significant area of concern for Tashkent’s domestic policy.
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Kazakh President’s Visit to Italy and Strategic Implications
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s official visit to Italy marks a pivotal moment in bilateral relations, emphasising shared interests in energy diversification, technology, and infrastructure. The visit resulted in significant progress, with seven intergovernmental agreements, and 16 commercial memoranda signed. Key projects, including a joint venture between Eni and KazMunayGas for a hybrid power plant, underscore the expanding economic ties.
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Uzbekistan Economic Performance in 2023, Country’s Future Development and the Karakalpakstan’s Issue
In 2023, the World Bank reported positive economic growth in Uzbekistan. However, the broader macro region, which encompasses Central Asia and Europe, presents intriguing dynamics. Despite the economic upturn, the Central Asian republic continues to grapple with pressing domestic challenges.
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Achieving the impossible? Exploring a New Energy Pathway via a Turkmenistan-Iran-Iraq Potential Trilateral Cooperation
The trilateral cooperation in the energy field between Turkmenistan, Iran, and Iraq might significantly impact the Eurasian geopolitical chessboard and transform these countries as natural gas exporters and alternative key actors in the Middle East and Central Asia.
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Tajikistan’s 2023 in Review Between Government’s Optimism and the Country’s Challenges
Although Tajik President Emomali Rahmon announced to the nation a prosperous future, Tajikistan still faces essential problems related to domestic stability, the threat coming from neighbouring Afghanistan, the government’s management of Gorno-Badakhshan, and the economic performance.
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Central Asia: What to Watch in 2024
Our primary aim is to facilitate informed decision-making and proactively anticipate potential challenges in Central Asia. We achieve this by thoroughly assessing and closely monitoring the region’s significant geopolitical dynamics. Through this report, we present a nuanced perspective on the factors that demand continuous scrutiny, fostering a proactive approach to navigate the complex geopolitical currents shaping Central Asia in the coming year.
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The Terrorist Threat in Germany and Its Link with the post-Soviet Space
Terrorists affiliated with the Islamic State might exploit the Ukrainian refugee crisis to infiltrate Germany and the European Union, posing a significant threat to national security. German security officials have reported an increase in individuals from Central Asia, particularly Tajikistan, masquerading as Ukrainian refugees, utilising false documents and fictitious narratives to evade stringent checks.
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Diyanet’s Role to Promote Turkey in Central Asia and Russia
Despite its recognition, Diyanet has been embroiled in scandals in Europe, particularly related to illegal intelligence activities and financial transactions. Its active involvement in the post-Soviet space, notably in Central Asia and Russia, reflects its role as a tool of Turkish “soft power” and an avenue for cultural and humanitarian dialogue.
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Geopolitics of EU Strategy in Central Asia
The evolution of EU policy towards Central Asian countries, transitioning from aid-driven reforms to a strategic focus on energy security and cross-country cooperation, has entered a new phase in 2022.Geopolitical considerations increasingly influenced the European Union’s engagement, particularly in countering Russian and Chinese influence.
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Geopolitics of Contemporary Kyrgyzstan between Russia, China, and Turkey
Kyrgyzstan’s economic landscape is deeply intertwined with Russia, reflecting substantial joint ventures and investments. The recent shift in language policy, diminishing the use of the Russian language, signals a departure in cultural ties. Simultaneously, Kyrgyzstan is strategically engaging with China in energy and infrastructure projects, while Turkish influence extends through education, culture, and military cooperation.
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Kazakhstan’s Role in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and its Contribution to Stabilise Central Asia
SpecialEurasian, in collaboration with CeSEM – Centro Studi Eurasia Mediterraneo, published the English and Italian version of Geopolitical Report 2532-845X Special Issue 2 Year 2023 titled “Kazakhstan’s Role in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and Its Contribution to Stabilise Central Asia”.
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Thinking Outside The EU-CA Box? The Prospects of A C5+Greece Cooperation
The report elucidates the potential that emerges from implementing this format for Greece-Central Asia relations, highlighting the mutual benefits and exploring the various topics and projects that can be undertaken within this framework.
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Iran-Turkmenistan: How Cultural Ties Can Boost Trade and Political Cooperation
In early December, Ashgabat hosted the Intergovernmental Turkmen-Turkish Commission on Economic Cooperation with Turkish delegates, readdressing the potential gas delivery from Turkmenistan to Turkey through Iran. Iran-Turkmenistan’s centuries-old relations provide the basis for a long-lasting and profitable collaboration between these two countries.
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Saudi Arabia and Qatar’s interests in Uzbekistan’s Economy and Investment Opportunities
Both Saudi Arabia and Qatar have demonstrated their interests in investing in Uzbekistan’s economy and infrastructural projects in different fields. Doha and Riyadh’s investments in the Uzbek market confirms how Central Asia has become attractive for Gulf Arab monarchies since the region plays a strategic role in connecting Europe and Asia.
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Countering Drug Trafficking and Improving Security: Russia and Tajikistan Intensified Their Cooperation
The Russian ambassador in Dushanbe recently underscored a notable upswing in collaborative efforts between Russia and Tajikistan, specifically in the realms of security and countering drug trafficking, confirming Moscow’s strategy to strengthen its influence in the Central Asian republic.
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Central Asia: Iran’s increasing ties with post-Soviet republics
In the wake of meeting between Iran’s First Vice President, Mohammad Mokhber, and the Prime Minister of Kyrgyzstan, Akylbek Japarov, this analysis delves into the evolving landscape of Central Asia-Iran relations. The discussion, which encompassed the construction of a power plant, a refinery, and a prospective railway corridor connecting the two nations, underscores the collaborative prospects emerging within the geopolitical scenario of the region.
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How Dagestan-Uzbekistan Economic Cooperation Might Support Russia’s Presence in Central Asia
The opening of trading houses between Dagestan and Uzbekistan confirmed Makhachkala’s role in promoting its business in Central Asia and, therefore, supporting the Russian presence in this strategic market. Since the beginning of the Ukraine conflict, the North Caucasus has played a significant role in promoting the Kremlin’s economic and political presence in Russia’s blizhnee zarubezhe.
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Putin-Rahmon’s Meeting: Russia Confirmed Its Hold on Tajikistan
Emomali Rahmon’s meeting with Vladimir Putin reaffirmed the enduring strategic alliance between Moscow and Dushanbe, underscoring Russia’s deliberate emphasis on fortifying collaborative efforts with Tajikistan, particularly in matters pertaining to defence and security, along with education and societal domains.
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Qatar Increased Investments and Cooperation in Uzbekistan’s Strategic Sectors
The recent meeting between Uzbekistan and Qatar’s representatives in Doha underscores Tashkent’s policy shift towards broadening its trade and commercial partnerships and Qatar’s strategy to enhance its economic presence in Central Asia.
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First Germany-Central Asia Summit. Why Does It Matter?
The Germany – Central Asia summit held in Berlin serves as a tangible testament to the European Union’s concerted efforts to forge closer ties with the Central Asian republics while strategically safeguarding against the growing influences of Russia and China.
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Geopolitics of Russia’s Language Schools in Kyrgyzstan
Russia’s concerted efforts in Kyrgyzstan, focused on supporting local educational and humanitarian initiatives, represent a significant augmentation of its soft power and cultural influence in the region. The cornerstone of this strategy lies in the establishment of Russian language schools in Kyrgyzstan, a project actively backed by Moscow.
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Navigating Domestic Challenges and Needs: Turkmenistan-Pakistan Partnership in Advancing TAPI
Turkmenistan and Pakistan seek to confirm and expand their cooperation, notably in the domain of energy cooperation, with a focal emphasis on the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) natural gas pipeline project.
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Geopolitics of the 10th Cooperation Forum China – Central Asia Organised in Xiamen
The 10th Cooperation Forum China – Central Asia, held recently in Xiamen, underscored Beijing’s strategic approach in the region and highlighted Central Asian nations’ imperative to enhance their connectivity and collaboration with the Chinese market.
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Xinjiang’s Role in Promoting Kazakhstan-China’s Trade and Economic Cooperation
The recent bilateral meeting between Kazakh and Xinjiang authorities substantiated the collaborative commitment between Astana and Beijing, highlighting the pivotal role that the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (XUAR) may assume in bolstering regional connectivity and facilitating the realisation of the Belt and Road Initiative.
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Visa’s Strategy in Kazakhstan Confirms Foreign Interests in the Local SMEs
The “Business Springboard” competition, which has been organised by Visa, demonstrates the significant interest foreign entities hold for the SMEs sector in Kazakhstan. It unequivocally signifies their commitment to solidifying their footprint in the local market and forging enduring relationships with the burgeoning community of small and medium enterprises.
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Busan Economic Forum: Strengthening Trade Ties between South Korea and Central Asia
In an increasingly interconnected and multipolar world, the recent Busan Economic Forum has confirmed Seoul and the Central Asian republics’ interests to strengthen economic and trade relations, positioning South Korea amidst a dynamic landscape shaped by global powers as well as pivotal regional actors.
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Decoding the Geopolitical Meaning of the United States + Central Asia Summit of September 2023
The forthcoming “United States + Central Asia” summit, scheduled for mid-September 2023, stands as a resounding affirmation of the region’s enduring geopolitical significance
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Emomali Rahmon’s Official Visit to Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region: Why Does It Matter?
Emomali Rahmon’s visits to the Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region (GBAO) highlights Dushanbe’s commitment to regional development and control, yet also expose the challenge of balancing local discontent with central authority.
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Navigating Challenges and Cooperation: Insights from the Turkmenistan-Tajikistan-Uzbekistan Summit
The first-ever trilateral summit between Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan organised in Ashgabat underlined the desire of these three Central Asian republics to cooperate in different fields to guarantee regional stability and interconnection.
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Central Asia Unites: Exploring the New Era of Togetherness
Today, the countries of Central Asia have closer ties than ever before, and these bonds are expanding. An example of this is the summits that the states are holding with Central Asia and the frequent state and working visits by Central Asian leaders to each other’s countries.
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Kyrgyzstan’s Cooperation With Iran: Bishkek’s Attempt To Link The National Market To Tehran’s Ports
In a strategic move amid shifting geopolitical dynamics, Kyrgyzstan and Iran are attempting to expand their trade and economic ties, driven by Bishkek’s pursuit of alternative transit routes and access to Iranian oil products, and Tehran’s strategic outreach towards the Central Asian republics considering Western sanctions and recent developments in the Eurasian region.
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Geopolitics in Action: How the “Central Asia + GCC” Summit Is Redefining Regional Dynamics
The inaugural “Central Asia + GCC” Summit held in Saudi Arabia marks a significant milestone in fostering interregional cooperation between the Gulf countries and Central Asia.
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Future Prospects Of Kazakhstan: An On-the-Ground Report From Astana
After our visits to Astana, SpecialEurasia published a report on the future prospects of Kazakhstan, which analysed the country’s domestic and foreign policy as well as the local society and culture.
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Uzbekistan’s Path to Stability? Analysing the Recent Presidential Elections
Uzbekistan recently held its presidential elections, and the re-election of Shavkat Mirziyoyev has significant importance for the country. Mirziyoyev’s victory ensures stronger governance, allowing Uzbekistan to continue its process of reforms, economic diversification, and foreign policy initiatives.
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Jihadist Propaganda and Rising Threats in Germany: A Risk Assessment
A recent operation by German federal prosecutors has uncovered a suspected jihadist cell composed of seven individuals from Central Asia. This development highlights the severity of the terrorist threat faced by Europe from external sources.
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Countering Jihadist Threats: Pakistan-Tajikistan Defence Cooperation in Focus and Geopolitical Implication
By improving security and defence cooperations, Pakistan is trying to increase its influence on Tajikistan and the regional security system of Central Asia as a whole and prevent the rise of jihadist groups.
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Modern Mongolia and the Economics of Herding
This analysis investigates the economic hardships experienced by Mongolian herders and explores the profound influence of global forces on their traditional way of life, shedding light on the intricacies of their livelihoods amidst an ever-changing landscape.
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Qatar’s Central Asian Diplomatic Blitz: A New Era of Opportunity
Qatar’s recent diplomatic foray into Central Asia by the Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani marked a significant step in the nation’s regional foreign policy.
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Economic Cooperation and Security: Russia pushes Tajikistan’s Entry into the EAEU
The recent meeting between Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and Tajikistan’s President Emomali Rahmon has unveiled the Central Asian republic’s strategic role for Moscow’s foreign policy in the region in defence, security, economy and social sectors.
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Exploring Kazakhstan’s Foreign Policy and Future Scenarios: a Meeting with Roman Vassilenko
During the Astana International Forum, SpecialEurasia met with Roman Vassilenko, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan, to discuss Kazakh foreign politics and regional dynamics.
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SpecialEurasia joined Eurispes in the Uzbek-Italian permanent working table
On May 29th, 2023, SpecialEurasia representatives met with an Uzbek delegation at the Eurispes to better understand the Central Asian republic’s strategic role and investment opportunities and possibilities of cooperation between Rome and Tashkent.
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The Astana International Forum 2023: Kazakhstan’s Rise as a Strategic Investment Hub and Geopolitical Hotspot
SpecialEurasia will participate in the Astana International Forum 2023, as part of our ongoing commitment to monitoring and evaluating emerging markets and investment prospects in strategic countries like Kazakhstan and the broader Central Asian region.
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Enhancing China-Kyrgyzstan Cooperation: Inauguration of Analytical Centre for China Studies
The inauguration of the Analytical Centre for China Studies in Bishkek marks a significant milestone in China-Kyrgyzstan cooperation, underscoring Beijing’s strategic approach towards the Central Asian republic.
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Exploring Iran’s Latest Natural Gas Import Deal with Turkmenistan
The recent Iran-Turkmenistan deal on natural gas export emerges as a pivotal agreement, poised to both fortify Tehran’s energy strategy and bolster Ashgabat’s endeavours towards economic diversification by expanding its trade partners.
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Dagestan and Tajikistan discussed expanding cooperation in different fields, especially the halal industry
Dagestan and Tajikistan’s entente on developing cooperation confirms the North Caucasus’s role in promoting relations between Russia and foreign countries, especially those in the blizhnee zarubezhe (near abroad) where the Kremlin wants to confirm its presence and influence.
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$1.2 billion Egyptian investments to strengthen relations with Uzbekistan
Egyptian business representatives promised $1.2 billion investments in Uzbekistan in different economic fields during the meeting with the Uzbek President
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Brussels and Beijing’s interest/competition in Central Asia
The first China-Central Asia Summit and the second EU-Central Asia Economic Forum highlighted Beijing and Brussels’ interests and competition in the region.
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Kyrgyzstan security forces eliminated a terrorist near Bishkek: why does it matter?
The Kyrgyz special operation to arrest an armed group in Dmitrievka, which resulted in the elimination of a suspected terrorist who fought in Syria, highlighted that Kyrgyzstan is not immune to terrorism or jihadist propaganda.
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The importance of KazanForum 2023 and the China-Central Asia Summit for Eurasia and the Islamic world’s geopolitics
The KazanForum 2023 and the “China-Central Asia” Summit definitely emphasise Kremlin and Beijing’s strategies in Eurasia and the Islamic world’s strategic areas in time of confrontation with the West.
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Turkmenistan began supplying natural gas to Pakistan through Afghanistan
Turkmenistan accomplished the mission to export its natural gas to Pakistan through Afghanistan, an economic goal that Ashgabat aimed to reach to diversify its exports and trade partners and increase the revenue.
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Mongolian Foreign Minister will pay a visit to China: why does it matter?
Mongolian Foreign Affairs Minister’s upcoming visit to China emphasised the relations between Ulaanbaatar and Beijing and the Chinese strategy to increase its influence in the Asian country because of strategic position and significant natural resources.
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Kazakhstan’s plans to increase exports to Iran emphasised Astana’s regional foreign policy
Kazakhstan’s desire to increase exports to Iran might hugely impact geopolitical dynamics in Eurasia, considering Astana’s desire to diversify and enhance its trade and economic partners to decrease Russia and China’s influence and Tehran’s necessity to overcome Western sanctions.
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How might the Dushanbe-Kulma highway support interconnection between Gorno-Badakhshan and Xinjiang and regional stability?
The construction of the Dushanbe-Kulma highway, thanks to the Chinese investment, might support the interconnection between the Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region (GBAO) and the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (XUAR) with the final goal of improving local economies and stabilising these two strategic regions.
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Can the creation of the Shavat-Dashoguz trade zone support Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan’s economy?
The creation of the Shavat-Dashoguz trade zone might strengthen Uzbek-Turkmen’s economic cooperation and bilateral relations and attract foreign investors interested in establishing their business in Central Asia by exploiting local government’s trade agreements and logistic projects.
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Saudi Arabia and Uzbekistan continue strengthening investment cooperation and bilateral relations
Recent negotiations between Saudi Arabia and Uzbekistan on investment cooperation confirmed Riyadh’s strategy in Central Asia based on financial support to local governments’ infrastructural projects and humanitarian aid.
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Cambiamenti climatici, IDPs e terrorismo: prospettive future in Asia
In questa ricerca verrà analizzato il trinomio cambiamenti climatici, conseguenze sulla popolazione e terrorismo in Asia destinato, se la comunità internazionale non provvederà a fermare questo trend, ad essere presente nelle agende internazionali negli anni a venire.
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Geopolitics of the Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Oblast (GBAO)
The Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Oblast (GBAO) might be considered one of Central Asia’s most strategically important areas, attracting multiple global powers’ attention. Under Dushanbe’s control, the region has experimented with the confrontation between the central authority and the local population.
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Islam in Kazakhstan: an interview with the Supreme Mufti Nauryzbai kazhy Taganuly
SpecialEurasia Managing Director, Silvia Boltuc, met in Astana the Chairman of the Spiritual Administration of Muslims of Kazakhstan, Supreme Mufti Nauryzbai kazhy Taganuly, to discuss the role of Islam in the country and the relations between the Kazakh Muslim umma (community) and other Muslim countries.
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India’s cultural diplomacy in Turkmenistan in the framework of Central Asian geopolitics
Geopolitical Report ISSN 2785-2598 Volume 29 Issue 8 Author: Guido Keller India and Turkmenistan discussed expanding cultural cooperation confirming New Delhi’s strategy in Central Asia and Ashgabat’s desire to diversify and enhance its collaboration and ties with regional actors.
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Geopolitics of the International North-South Transport Corridor: an interview with Alexandr Sharov
SpecialEurasia discussed with Alexandr Sharov, General Director of the transport company LLC Neftekhimtrans, Group of companies Rusiranexpo, the current geopolitical significance of the INSTC and possible future developments and impact in the Eurasian strategic chessboard.
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Geopolitics of parliamentary elections in Kazakhstan
Upcoming parliamentary elections in Kazakhstan mark the last step for the country’s complete reformation based on modernisation and democratisation according to the new path promoted by Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.
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Kyrgyzstan-Tajikistan border dispute: might CSTO guarantee regional security?
CSTO Secretary General Imangali Tasmagambetov’s visits to Bishkek and Dushanbe marked the Russian-led military organisations’ attempt to play a prominent role in resolving the Kyrgyzstan-Tajikistan border dispute and, therefore, stabilising the region.
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Geopolitics of Russia-Uzbekistan-Kazakhstan’s ‘trilateral gas union’ in Central Asia
Russia-Uzbekistan-Kazakhstan’s ‘trilateral gas union’ might represent geopolitical leverage in favour of Moscow and Beijing because it might simultaneously satisfy the Chinese energy market’s needs and support the Russian and Chinese foreign policy in Central Asia.
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United Arab Emirates and Eurasian Economic Union might establish a free trade zone
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) member countries discussed the establishment of a free trade zone, which might become a significant step in strengthening Emirati financial and economic presence in the Eurasian geopolitical chessboard and support Russian financial strategy to contrast Western sanctions’ consequences.
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Central Asia Weekly Intelligence Brief February 27th, 2023 – March 2nd, 2023
SpecialEurasia published the document “Central Asia Weekly Intelligence Brief February 27th– March 2nd, 2023”, whose purpose is to highlight key geopolitical topics related to Central Asia affecting the international arena and organisations around the globe.
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Antony Blinken visited Kazakhstan and confirmed US interests in Central Asia
Antony Blinken’s visit to Astana stressed Washington’s interests in Central Asia since the region has played a vital role in the Eurasian geopolitical chessboard, especially after the beginning of the Ukraine conflict.
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Vietnam and Uzbekistan seek to expand economic cooperation
Since Uzbekistan and Vietnam are expanding their economic cooperation and relations, Tashkent might promote its role in Central Asia as a regional interconnector. At the same time, Hanoi might support its foreign policy by establishing a strategic partnership with international and regional actors.
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Tajikistan attracts interests and investments from the Arab-Muslim world: might Qatar become an important regional asset?
The meetings between Tajik representatives and officials from Qatar and the Islamic Development Bank highlighted Tajikistan’s strategy to attract foreign investments from the Arab-Muslim world and Doha’s desire to play a significant role in the local and regional market.
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Italy and Turkmenistan discussed business opportunities: might Rome support EU policy in Central Asia?
The recent meeting between the Turkmen ambassador to Italy and the Italian Trade Agency’s representatives highlighted business potentialities between the two countries, Rome’s desire to increase its presence in the Turkmen and Central Asia markets, and Ashgabat’s strategy to diversify its commercial partners.
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Kazakhstan and the United States discussed cooperation in the field of energy security
Geopolitical Report ISSN 2785-2598 Volume 27 Issue 4 – The recent meeting between Kazakh and U.S. representatives in Washington stressed Astana’s desire to balance its foreign policy between the West, Russia, and China, and the White House strategy to increase its presence in the Central Asian republic.
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Mishustin’s visit to Ashgabat and the Russia-Turkmenistan Business Forum confirm Moscow’s strategy in Central Asia
The recent Russia-Turkmenistan business forum attended by the Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin confirmed Kremlin’s strategy in Central Asia and Moscow’s desire to deepen economic and diplomatic cooperation with Ashgabat to avoid any further external interference by the European Union, China, or the United States.
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Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan discussed resolving territorial issues
In a phone call, Tajik President Emomali Rahmon discussed bilateral relations with Kyrgyz President Sadyr Zhaparov and the delimitation of the common border necessary to resolve Tajikistan-Kyrgyzstan territorial disputes which in the past have erupted in border clashes.
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Tajikistan increases its counterterrorist readiness through military drills in Fakhrabad
Recent counterterrorism military drills in Tajikistan highlighted Dushanbe’s necessity to upgrade its readiness and expertise in facing terrorist threats inside the country and jihadist activities from neighbouring areas of Afghanistan.
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Geopolitical risk in Central Asia and AfPak: what to watch in 2023
In 2023, foreign actors’ interests, terrorism, authoritarianism, and economic slowdown might threaten Central Asia and AfPak’s security and stability and increase regional geopolitical risk.
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Kyrgyzstan and the Middle East: Zhaparov discussed joint projects with UAE
Zhaparov’s official visit to Abu Dhabi confirms Kyrgyzstan’s interest in developing an economic partnership with the United Arab Emirates and the Emirati desire to enhance its presence and influence in the Central Asian republic.
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Turkmenistan and United Arab Emirates strengthened their relations
Serdar Berdimuhamedov’s recent visit to the United Arab Emirates confirms Turkmenistan’s interest in expanding ties with the Gulf monarchies and Abu Dhabi’s desire to increase its presence in Central Asia.
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European Union and Central Asia discussed interconnectivity and cooperation
In the context of the Ukraine conflict and the Brussels- Moscow confrontation, the European Union attempts to expand its activity and presence in Central Asia by improving connectivity projects and cooperation.
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Kyrgyzstan wants to strengthen commercial ties with the United States
The recent meeting between Zhaparov and the U.S.-Kyrgyzstan Business Council stressed Bishkek’s desire to strengthen economic relations with the United States and attract U.S. investors in its country. Balancing among these international players could be one of the main challenges that Kyrgyzstan should address, as well as the necessity to maintain control over the population and avoid possible socioeconomic problems.
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Lower prices in Tajikistan: will Dushanbe face a “spiral deflation”?
Since August 2022, Tajikistan has started a deflationary process in the consumer sector to reduce the prices of goods and tariffs and stimulate the national economy.
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“Central Asia – Russia” summit confirmed economic cooperation and Kremlin’s regional influence
The first “Central Asia-Russia” summit in Astana confirmed the Russian importance in the region and the Kremlin’s strategy to increase economic cooperation with Central Asian republics.
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Tajikistan between CSTO and U.S. military support to defend its borders and domestic stability
While the CSTO military exercises were taking place in Tajikistan, Dushanbe received U.S. representatives who confirmed Washington’s interest and strategy in strengthening the security and defence of the Tajik-Afghan borders.
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Kazakhstan strategy between Russian alliance and Western sanctions
Tokayev’s suggestion to create an organisation in the framework of the CIS to promote the Russian language might be interpreted as Kazakhstan’s attempt to normalise relations with Russia, which were downgraded due to the Ukraine conflict and the Western sanctions.
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Might Kazakhstan face internal separatism and ethnic problems?
Recent propaganda on Telegram spread by a ‘foreign agent’ who promoted separatism in Kazakhstan highlighted possible future problems that the Central Asian republic might face since different ethnic minorities live in the country.
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