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Crossroads Asia

Emerging Russian Firm Takes Place of Sanctioned Lender in Central Asia

Emerging Russian Firm Takes Place of Sanctioned Lender in Central Asia

By Daniel Beizsley
Russia’s substitution of VEB.RF with an under-the-radar firm is helping the country and its neighbors find a way around Western sanctions.

Uzbekistan Moves to Protect Rights of Uzbek Citizens in Russia

Uzbekistan Moves to Protect Rights of Uzbek Citizens in Russia

By Niginakhon Saida
As the Ukraine war drags on, Central Asian nationals, including Uzbeks in Russia – particularly those in Russian prisons – are increasingly vulnerable. Can Tashkent protect their rights?
In Kyrgyzstan, Matraimov Wriggles Free Again With a Fine

In Kyrgyzstan, Matraimov Wriggles Free Again With a Fine

By Catherine Putz
When he was extradited to Kyrgyzstan earlier this year, Matraimov was alleged to be connected to an opaque assassination plot. He just got off with a fine for hooliganism. 

With Prime Minister’s Visit, Mongolia Boosts Third Neighbor Ties With the Middle East

With Prime Minister’s Visit, Mongolia Boosts Third Neighbor Ties With the Middle East

By Bolor Lkhaajav
Prime Minister Oyun-Erdene Luvsannamsrai paid a working visit to Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and the United Arab Emirates.

The Legitimization of Land Grabbing in Uzbekistan’s Cotton Sector 

The Legitimization of Land Grabbing in Uzbekistan’s Cotton Sector 

By Lynn Schweisfurth
Farmers pay a heavy price in the name of privatization.

What’s Driving Taiwan’s Mass Protests?
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What’s Driving Taiwan’s Mass Protests?

No Rallies in 3 Years? Kyrgyz President Claims ‘Stability,’ Forgets Reality

No Rallies in 3 Years? Kyrgyz President Claims ‘Stability,’ Forgets Reality

By Catherine Putz
Despite a ban on rallies in much of Bishkek since March 2022, there have actually been rallies, protests, and even riots in the country in recent years.

Mongolia Eyes India as Third Destination for Coal Exports

Mongolia Eyes India as Third Destination for Coal Exports

By Bolor Lkhaajav
Mongolian coal exports to India have the potential to reduce Ulaanbaatar’s landlocked conundrum. 
Sanctions on Gazprombank Imperil Uzbek Copper Mine Expansion

Sanctions on Gazprombank Imperil Uzbek Copper Mine Expansion

By Daniel Beizsley
The $4.8 billion Yoshlik expansion project aims to vastly expand Uzbekistan’s copper output, but the Western sanctioning of Russian banks financing the project put the enterprise at risk.

After 33 Years, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan Announce Border Agreement

After 33 Years, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan Announce Border Agreement

By Catherine Putz
The two sides say they’ve reached an agreement and fully completed the description of their mutual border. The next steps will be even more difficult.

Door-to-Door: Tajikistan’s Fight Against Radicalization

Door-to-Door: Tajikistan’s Fight Against Radicalization

By Abaigeal Lorge
Dushanbe’s door-to-door policy is part of an almost decade-long campaign to counter radicalization and religious extremism in the country. Is it effective?

Critical Metals Key to Deepening South Korea-Kyrgyzstan Relations

Critical Metals Key to Deepening South Korea-Kyrgyzstan Relations

By Catherine Putz
The two countries elevated ties to a comprehensive partnership.
France and Italy’s Central Asia Strategy: Securing Energy and Shaping Security

France and Italy’s Central Asia Strategy: Securing Energy and Shaping Security

By Douwe van der Meer and Alexander Royall
Central Asia’s evolving geopolitical role is not just about balancing external actors; it is about leveraging these partnerships to pursue their own national and elite interests. 

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