Tag: Central Asia
-
Tajikistan Geopolitical Risk Profile 2026
Tajikistan’s internal and external risks remain medium-high in 2026 because of entrenched strong centralised government, economic weaknesses, and ongoing security tensions.
-
United States–Central Asia Economic Engagement and the B5+1 Business Forum
This report assesses recent United States–Central Asia economic engagement through the B5+1 Business Forum held in Bishkek in February 2026.
-
Deepening Kazakhstan–Israel Cooperation: Economic Signals, Risks, and Strategic Effects
This report reviews the acceleration of Kazakhstan–Israel cooperation across defence, technology, and diplomacy, assessed through recent political and economic milestones.
-
Russia Discussed Defence and Military Cooperation with Afghanistan
Russian Deputy Defence Minister Vasily Osmakov and Taliban Deputy Defence Minister Mohammad Farid met in Moscow on 29 January 2026 to formalise military cooperation.
-
The New Opium Afghan Road and the Reshaping of Criminal Networks in Central Asia
This report seeks to demonstrate how the inability to control drug trafficking and its expansion in Central Asia presents another major challenge for the current de facto Taliban government, although the movement ban the opium cultivation in 2022.
-
Central Asia Geopolitical Risk 2026
Central Asia will enter 2026 with relative surface stability because of better regional coordination and no immediate interstate conflict.
-
Kyrgyzstan Expands Economic Engagement with Afghanistan, Opening a Trade House in Kabul
This report examines Kyrgyzstan’s strategic expansion of economic engagement with Afghanistan through the establishment of a permanent Trade House in Kabul, assessing its political, economic, and security implications.
-
Kazakhstan – Afghanistan Transit and Economic Nexus via Hairatan
This report analyses the economic and strategic conversations held between Kazakhstan and Afghanistan in Mazar-i-Sharif focused on bilateral trade, humanitarian aid, and the strengthening of transit corridors.
-
Astana-Kyiv’s Relations and Kazakh Oil Export After the CPC Terminal Attack
Executive Summary This report evaluates the current relations between Ukraine and Kazakhstan after the naval drone strike on the Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC) terminal near Novorossiysk on November 29, 2025, and Astana’s formal protest to Kyiv.
-
Understanding Central Asia’s Dynamics: Interview with Alberto Frigerio
SpecialEurasia engaged Alberto Frigerio, Full Professors at Narxoz University in Almaty, in order to improve understanding of Central Asia and its changing dynamics.
-
Tajikistan and the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan: Towards a Central Asian Normalisation of the de facto current Taliban regime?
This report aims to evaluate the developing diplomatic relations between Tajikistan and the Taliban, following the recent meeting in Kabul, through an analysis of pertinent events and research.
-
Geopolitics of Uzbekistan as a Strategic Pivot in Eurasia
This report analyses Uzbekistan’s geopolitical, economic, and security environment, assessing its strategic posture, multi-vector foreign policy, and regional influence.
-
Gulf Arab Monarchies Increased Their Economic Relations with Central Asia
The Eurasian Development Bank’s first macroeconomic study on the Persian Gulf states highlights a sharp expansion in trade and investment ties between the Gulf Arab monarchies and Central Asian republics over the 2020–2024 period.
-
Kazakhstan and the Abraham Accords: A Look Ahead
Kazakhstan announced its intention to join the Abraham Accords during President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s visit in Washington D.C. to attend the “Central Asia + United States” Summit.
-
The Tajik-Uzbek Jihadism: Transnational Violence and Security Policies in Central Asia
This report aims to analyse the intersection between the Uzbek and the Tajiks, which we can consider among the most influential ethnic jihadist groups in Central Asia.
-
Central Asian Gas Ring: Opportunities, Risks and Geopolitical Implications
This report examines the proposed Central Asian Gas Ring, assessing its potential to stabilise regional energy supply, attract investment, and alter the geopolitical and economic balance among Central Asian states and external actors.
-
President Alexander Stubb’s Official Visit to Uzbekistan Marks a New Chapter in Finland–Uzbekistan Relations
This report provides an analytical overview of the upcoming official visit of the President of Finland, Alexander Stubb, to the Republic of Uzbekistan, scheduled for October 30–31, 2025.
-
Azerbaijan-Kazakhstan Consolidated Their Regional Cooperation and Strategy
The visit of President Ilham Aliyev to Astana on October 20-21, 2025, strengthened the strategic partnership between Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan.
-
Turkmenistan President’s Official Visit to Rome: Why Matters?
Turkmenistan’s President Serdar Berdimuhamedov arrived in Rome on October 24, 2025, for a state visit that involves a meeting with Italian leaders, attendance at a business forum, and the opening of an archaeological exhibition at the Musei Capitolini.
-
Public Event in San Marino Explores Central Asia’s Strategic Role in a Changing Global Landscape
Libera San Marino will host a public event titled “Central Asia: New Prospects for Business and Development in an Evolving Global Market” at Palazzo Graziani, San Marino, on 28 October 2025.
-
Uzbekistan–EU Relations Enter a New Era with the Signing of the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement
This report provides an analytical overview of the upcoming signing of the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (EPCA) between Uzbekistan and the European Union, scheduled for October 24, 2025, in Brussels.
-
EU Cross-Regional Connectivity and Strategic Engagement in the Black Sea, South Caucasus, and Central Asia
The EU Cross-Regional Connectivity Agenda has increased its commitment to the Black Sea, South Caucasus, and Central Asia with the purpose of improving trade, energy, and digital infrastructures and boosting security and resilience.
-
CIS and Russia-Central Asia Summits: Regional Dynamics and Moscow’s Strategy
The Dushanbe meetings, which occurred from October 8th to 10th, 2025, led to a collaborative set of political, security, and economic commitments within the Russia–Central Asia and CIS frameworks, resulting in 19 signed documents and the creation of a “CIS Plus” model.
-
Webinar Summary: Book Presentation on “Geopolitics of Central Asia”
On Wednesday, 15 October 2025, SpecialEurasia held a webinar to present the book Geopolitics of Central Asia, a collective volume derived from the organisation’s long-term research project on the region.
-
CSTO Military Exercise “Rubezh-2025”: Intel Briefing
This report provides an assessment of the Collective Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO) military exercise “Rubezh-2025”, held in Kyrgyzstan from 17 to 20 September 2025.
-
Kazakhstan’s Reform Path: Consolidation of Power and Strategic Modernisation
This report examines Kazakhstan’s changing internal and energy policies following President Tokayev’s State of the Nation Address on September 8, 2025.
-
India-Central Asia’s Trade and Economic Performance Between Opportunities and Challenges
This report assesses the current scale, constraints and strategic implications of commerce between India and the Central Asian states, based on the recent findings published by the Eurasian Development Bank and India Exim Bank.
-
C5+1 Secretariat Meeting in Dushanbe: Washington Confirms Its Strategic Engagement in Central Asia
This report analyses the geopolitical dynamics and economic significance of the meeting, which gathered senior officials from Central Asian states and the U.S. Department of State convened in Dushanbe under the C5+1 format.
-
The Tajikistan–Afghanistan Border Clash Alarmed Regional Security
This report examines the geopolitical consequences of the armed clash on August 24, 2025, which involved Tajikistan border forces and Taliban fighters near the Panj River.
-
Central Asian Special Representatives on Afghanistan’s Meeting: Why Matters?
This report assesses the strategic and economic implications of the first meeting of Central Asian special representatives on Afghanistan, held in Uzbekistan on 26 August 2025.
-
Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan Discuss Increasing Trade Turnover to $500 Million
This report assesses the recent efforts by Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan to strengthen economic, infrastructural, and energy cooperation following their March 2025 border agreement.
-
Kyrgyzstan and Afghanistan Increased Their Economic Cooperation
This report investigates Kyrgyzstan’s recent engagement with Afghanistan through targeted economic cooperation and joint projects in the energy and transport fields.
-
Reconnecting India and Central Asia in a Changing Geopolitical Environment
This report provides an assessment and overview of India’s foreign relations with the Central Asian Republics (CARs) based on an established new kind of platform as well as special relations in security, climate change, ICT, and trans-terror.
-
Regional Defence Conference in Islamabad and US participation: Are Pakistan and Central Asia Seeking Alternative Military Partners?
Pakistan’s hosting of a high-level regional defence chiefs conference brought together senior military officials from the United States, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.
-
Turkey and the Defence Industry Cooperation Among Turkic States Promoted at the IDEF 2025
The Organisation of Turkic States (OTS) launched a multilateral defence industry cooperation platform that represents Ankara’s strategic initiative to expand its economic and geopolitical influence in Central Asia and the South Caucasus.
-
Central Asian Gas Sector and Broader Economic Implications
Central Asia faces a growing natural gas shortage because of the increasing population and insufficient infrastructure.
-
Central Asia Economic Forum 2025: Business to Reinforce Russian Regional Presence via Tajikistan
The Central Asia Economic Forum (CAEF), held in Dushanbe in July 2025, confirmed Russia’s desire to preserve and expand its regional influence through business and cultural diplomacy.
-
Belarus–Tajikistan Military-Technical Cooperation: Geopolitical Significance and Operational Constraints
On 23 July 2025, Belarus and Tajikistan held the first session of their intergovernmental commission on military-technical cooperation in Minsk.
-
Uzbekistan-Russian Joint Military Exercise “Hamkorlik-2025”: Why Matters?
Uzbekistan concluded a week-long joint military exercise with the Russian Federation, named Hamkorlik-2025, from 15 to 21 July 2025 in Surxondaryo Region.
-
Uzbekistan–Afghanistan–Pakistan Railway Agreement: Strategic Assessment
The Uzbekistan–Afghanistan–Pakistan (UAP) Railway Project Agreement significantly advances regional infrastructure integration.
-
Central Asia’s Emerging Problem with Narcotics Trafficking
This report highlights the significant increase in narcotics trafficking and related law enforcement operations across Central Asia, particularly in Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan.
-
Saudi Arabia’s Investments in Tajikistan’s Education: Cultural Diplomacy and Soft Power Recalibration
This report examines Saudi Arabia’s recent $20 million investment in Tajikistan’s education infrastructure, which is part of a larger development program totalling $325 million.
-
Tajikistan: Economic Vulnerabilities and Bilateral Fiscal Dynamics with Russia
This report evaluates Tajikistan’s response to the economic pressures stemming from Russia’s targeted import restrictions and Dushanbe’s concurrent implementation of a revised fiscal agreement with Moscow.
-
Geopolitical Risk June 2025: Caucasus, Central Asia, Middle East
This June 2025 report on geopolitical risks in the Middle East, Central Asia, and the Caucasus focuses on rising tensions, key factors, and future predictions. This helps stakeholders understand emerging threats, thus informing policy, security, and investment decisions.
-
The Second China‑Central Asia Summit Confirms Beijing’s Regional Strategy
This report evaluates the developing strategic relationship between Beijing and the Central Asian republics in the context of the Second China–Central Asia Summit in June 2025 considering also recent trends in Eurasia such as the Israeli-Iranian conflict.
-
Israel-Iran Conflict: Central Asia’s Reactions and Concerns for Regional Security
This report analyses the Israeli-Iranian conflict’s potential impact on Central Asian nations and their reactions. Central Asian governments express concern and advocate for de-escalation, while public opinion largely rejects military support for Iran.
-
Kyrgyzstan’s National Development Program Until 2030: Economic Outlook and Risk Assessment
This report examines the Kyrgyzstan’s economic development following the adoption of its National Development Programme until 2030. Bishkek has introduced ambitious growth targets, including a doubling of GDP and deep structural reforms across industry, logistics, agriculture, tourism, and green energy.
-
Afghanistan and the Kabul Corridor: Geopolitics and Risk Assessment
This report assesses the strategic implications, current developments, and potential risks associated with the Trans-Afghan Railway, also referred to as the “Kabul Corridor”. The report concludes with forecast scenarios concerning regional stability, trade potential, and geopolitical alignment.
-
Rising Cybercrime Alarms Uzbekistan’s National Security
This report assesses the strategic implications of the sharp rise in cybercrime in Uzbekistan between 2019 and 2024. The report details how this trend threatens Uzbekistan’s internal security, economic stability, and broader modernisation goals.
-
First “Central Asia + Italy” Summit Confirms the Regional “New Great Game”
This report assesses Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s official visit to Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan in May 2025 and its participation in the first “Central Asia + Italy” summit as well as imperative and constraints of Rome’s engagement in the region.
-
Giorgia Meloni’s Official Visit to Tashkent Marks Strengthening of Uzbekistan–Italy Strategic Partnership
This report provides an analytical overview of the official visit by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to Uzbekistan, which marks a significant advancement in the strategic partnership between the two nations.
-
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s Visit to Central Asia: Why Matters?
By the end of May, Giorgia Meloni, the Italian Prime Minister, will visit Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. The visit, postponed from April because of the death of Pope Francis, marks a formal shift in Italy’s approach to Central Asia.
-
Kazakhstan’s Geopolitics and International Relations: Interview with H.E. Yerbolat Sembayev
SpecialEurasia met with the Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to Italy, H.E. Yerbolat Sembayev, to acquire deeper insight into this Central Asian republic following the recent visit of Italian President Sergio Mattarella to Astana and the first EU–Central Asia summit held in early April 2025.
-
Kazakhstan and UAE Cement Strategic Partnership through Maritime, Financial, and Trade Infrastructure Expansion
The report examines the deepening of economic and strategic relations between Kazakhstan and the United Arab Emirates, highlighted by the signing of nine bilateral agreements worth $5 billion. These include major investments in port infrastructure at Kuryk and Aktau, expansion of agri-food trade, and significant financial integration through the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC).
-
Kazakhstan: Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs) and Economic Outlook
Kazakhstan recorded a foreign direct investment (FDI) inflow of $15.7 billion in 2024, marking an 88% increase over 2023 and the highest figure in its post-Soviet history. The inflow consolidates its position as the primary investment destination in Central and Northern Asia.
-
Central Asian Fighters in Syria Called for Jihad Against Russia and Iran
This report evaluates recent Central Asian fighters’ jihadist mobilisation efforts in Syria and the dissemination of related propaganda targeting Russian Muslims. Drawing on open-source information, including Telegram content in Russian, the report outlines the security risks posed to Syria, Russia, and Central Asia.
-
China-Central Asia Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Almaty Confirmed Beijing’s Regional Strategy
This report analyses the sixth meeting of the Foreign Ministers of China and the Central Asian republics, held in Almaty, and situates it within the broader geopolitical contest unfolding across Eurasia. China’s aim to solidify its regional power through planned dialogue, economic ties, and infrastructure projects demonstrates a long-term strategy.
-
Intelligence Agencies, Security, and Cooperation in Central Asia
This report provides a focused analysis of the developing security landscape in Central Asia, examining the increasing role of intelligence agencies and special forces in fostering regional cooperation amid shifting geopolitical realities. This report aims to evaluate the significance of recent security collaboration initiatives, analyse the root causes of defence reforms, and project how future events may influence regional stability.
-
Tajikistan’s Antimony Sector: A Weak Link in Western Supply Chains?
This report assesses the geopolitical risks tied to Tajikistan’s position in Western Critical Raw Material (CRM) supply chains, especially considering the antimony market, drawing on trade figures, publicly available investment data, and regional and international media coverage.
-
Central Asia: Projected Economic Deceleration Amid Fiscal Adjustments and Global Pressures (2025–2026)
This report analyses the Asian Development Bank’s (ADB) latest economic outlook concerning the Central Asian region, highlighting an expected deceleration in GDP growth of over 2025–2026. The ADB’s projections underscore persistent geopolitical and economic risks that could compound regional vulnerabilities in the medium term.
-
CSTO Strategic Reinforcement of the Tajik-Afghan Border
This report examines recent CSTO and Dushanbe’s efforts to bolster security on the Tajik-Afghan border, as the situation in northern Afghanistan worsens. Regional concerns about rising terrorism and illicit activity in Afghanistan’s border provinces pushed CSTO to start the first phase of its longstanding program.
-
Kazakhstan Increased its Military Expenditure Amid Foreign Investment Engagement
This report assesses Kazakhstan’s recent decision to allocate 120 billion tenge (approximately USD 265 million) for the development of its defence-industrial base, and its efforts to attract foreign investment from key international partners. This report assesses also Astana’s defence posture, investment, and regional.
-
Tashkent Conference: the Organisation of Turkic States Consolidates its Economic Presence in Central Asia
This report examines the growing strategic significance of the Organisation of Turkic States (OTS) in current economic and political changes in Central Asia, with an emphasis on the initiatives presented at the April 2025 conferences in Tashkent and diplomatic forum in Antalya.
-
Russia-Central Asia Relations Following the Almaty Ministerial Meeting
The eighth ministerial meeting between Russia and the five Central Asian states, held in Almaty on April 11, 2025, highlights Moscow’s ongoing efforts to consolidate strategic influence across its southern periphery. This report wants to assess the status of Russia-Central Asia relations and Moscow’s strategy to exploit multilateralism and security cooperation to influence Central Asian republics and counter the recent first EU-Central Asia summit.
-
How the Uzbekistan-Germany Labour Migration Agreement Affects the EU-Central Asia Partnership
The memorandum signed on 7 April 2025 between Uzbekistan and Germany establishes a structured labour migration framework focused on vocational training and legal mobility pathways for Uzbek workers in key sectors of the German economy. This report analyses the memorandum’s strategic implications for EU-Central Asia relations and Uzbekistan’s foreign policy diversification.
-
How Can Kazakhstan-United Kingdom Infrastructure Cooperation Impact Regional Dynamics?
Kazakhstan and the United Kingdom are intensifying their collaboration in infrastructure development, aiming to modernize Astana’s extensive energy, transport, water, and digital systems. This partnership leverages the UK’s engineering expertise and financial acumen to support Kazakhstan’s ambitious National Infrastructure Plan through 2029.
-
First EU-Central Asia Summit: Why Matters?
This report analyses the EU-Central Asia summit’s significance for Brussels’ strategy, highlighting Central Asia’s geopolitical rise and the European commitment to sustainable development and multilateralism.
-
Italian-Kazakh Agricultural Cooperation and Geopolitical Implications
Italy’s TRAMITE Group will launch a tomato processing operation in Kazakhstan, capitalising on the country’s agricultural potential and government incentives. The $100 million project aligns with Astana’s strategy to boost agricultural exports and attract foreign investment.
-
Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan’s Leaders Signed a Historical Agreement in Khujand
The recent border agreement between Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan represents a historic achievement in Central Asian diplomacy. The Khujand Declaration, along with the agreed-upon border crossing, symbolises regional cooperation and stability.
-
Russia’s Cultural Diplomacy in Uzbekistan and Central Asia Through Rossotrudnichestvo
This report examines the significance of Russian cultural diplomacy in Uzbekistan and Central Asia, and Rossotrudnichestvo’s contribution to the Kremlin’s regional aims. The report also analyses the “cultural geopolitical game” in the region involving regional and international actors.
-
Analysis of the EU-Central Asia Ministerial Meeting in Ashgabat
The recent EU-Central Asia ministerial meeting in Ashgabat and the upcoming EU-Central Asia Summit in Samarkand highlight Brussels’ strategic engagement with the region. Discussions focused on regional stability, economic cooperation, and the enforcement of sanctions against Russia.
-
Fergana Valley: Stability, Development, and Strategic Interests
The Fergana Valley, a strategically significant region in Central Asia, has long been a focal point of geopolitical tensions and economic development challenges. Spanning Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan, unresolved border disputes, ethnic tensions, terrorism, and economic fragility have shaped the valley.
-
CASA-1000 and Central Asian Regional Stability
The successful implementation of the CASA-1000 energy transmission project represents a critical milestone for regional cooperation in Central Asia. This initiative aims to facilitate the export of surplus hydroelectric power from Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan to Afghanistan and Pakistan, enhancing economic growth, regional stability, and international investment opportunities.
-
From Paris to Tashkent: France’s Strategy in Uzbekistan and Central Asia
This report examines the emerging partnership between France and Uzbekistan, focusing on its implications for economic growth, regional stability, and cultural exchange. With both countries working together, the report focuses on key cooperative efforts in trade, infrastructure, and education.
-
Insights from Turkmenistan’s International Investment Forum and Exhibition
Between March 17th-19th, 2025, Turkmenistan is hosting a series of events in Ashgabat, including an exhibition and the “Investments in the Future of Turkmenistan” international forum, which highlight the country’s domestic economic trends and strategy.
-
Italy-Kazakhstan Rising Cooperation Highlights the Key Role of the First EU-Central Asia Summit
The recent visit of Italian President Sergio Mattarella to Kazakhstan reinforces the developing relationship between Italy and Central Asia. His meeting with Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in Astana follows a series of bilateral agreements signed in 2024, strengthening economic, energy, and diplomatic cooperation between the two nations.
-
Kazakhstan and Turkey’s Growing Role in Afghanistan Through Agricultural and Humanitarian Cooperation
Kazakhstan and Turkey are increasingly active in Afghanistan, leveraging humanitarian, agricultural, and diplomatic support to secure regional influence. Astana’s participation in initiatives like the Islamic Organisation for Food Security (IOFS), coupled with Ankara’s expansion through TIKA, is reshaping the region’s geopolitical landscape.
-
Assessment of Tajikistan’s Military Modernisation Strategy and its Geopolitical Implications
This report evaluates Tajikistan’s ongoing military modernisation efforts, spearheaded by President Emomali Rahmon, focusing on the integration of advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), and the broader geopolitical and economic challenges associated with the country’s defence strategy.
-
Uzbekistan’s Military Modernisation: AI, UAVs, and Robotic Systems
This report aims to analyse the recent developments regarding Uzbekistan’s military modernisation efforts, as outlined in the presidential address on February 21st, 2025. The country is considering how to incorporate new technologies, such as drones, artificial intelligence, and automated control systems, into its military forces.
-
Analysis of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) in Central Asia: Perspectives and Challenges
This report aims at assessing the activities of the Collective Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO) in Central Asia, its perspectives and challenges.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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 after years of strained ties.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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).
-
CSTO “Rubezh-2024” Military Exercise in Tajikistan
This report investigates the “Rubezh-2024” military exercise occurred in Tajikistan, focusing on its implications for Moscowʼs regional military and foreign policies in Central Asia. The exercise facilitates the transfer of combat experience from Russian military personnel, drawn from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
-
The Organisation of Turkic States and Ankara’s Geopolitical Ambitions in Central Asia
The recent 13th meeting of the Ministers of Economy and Trade of the Organisation of Turkic States (OTS) in Bishkek underscored Turkey’s growing role in Central Asia. This report analyses how Ankara’s ambitions are reshaping the geopolitical landscape of Central Asia, with direct consequences for Moscow and Beijing.
-
Tajikistan: Emomali Rahmon visited the Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Oblast (GBAO)
President Emomali Rahmon’s recent visit to Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Oblast (GBAO) marks a continued effort by the Tajik government to strengthen socio-economic development and enhance security in the region. Rahmon visited and inaugurated several infrastructure projects, emphasising development ahead.
-
“Central Asia + Germany” Summit: Geoeconomic and Geopolitical Analysis
This report analyses the outcomes of the “Central Asia + Germany” summit held on September 17th, 2024, in Astana, focusing on the strategic economic, infrastructure, and security agreements reached between Central Asian countries and Germany.
