Blog
Crossroads Asia
Nur-Sultan No More and Kazakh Tinkering With Presidential Terms
By Catherine Putz
Kazakhstan is to introduce a single seven-year presidential term and revert the capital’s name to “Astana.”
Russia’s War in Ukraine the Backdrop to Pope’s Kazakh Visit
By Nicole Winfield and Kostya Manenkov
The most noteworthy aspects of Pope Francis' visit to Kazakhstan might be the missed opportunities.
Why China’s Xi Is Visiting Kazakhstan First
By Catherine Putz
Before Xi travels to Samarkand, Uzbekistan, for the SCO summit and a bilateral with Russian President Putin, he’ll land in Kazakhstan for a state visit.
‘Russia Is a Threat, Not a Friend’ Ukrainian Foreign Minister Warns Central Asia
By Catherine Putz
In a press conference with Central Asian media outlets, the Ukrainian foreign minister urged the region: “don’t let Russia use you.”
Afghan Refugees Face Uncertainty in Central Asia
By Catherine Putz
In recent days, Tajikistan has been criticized by the U.N. Refugee Agency for deporting Afghan refugees.
Mongolia Unveils New Pro-Business Cabinet
By Amar Adiya
The quick Cabinet reshuffle is intended to strengthen PM Oyun-Erdene’s position and give him legislative support to push his liberalization and privatization agenda forward.
Central Asia to Host Xi Jinping on First Foreign Trip Since 2020
By Catherine Putz
Xi is expected to travel to Kazakhstan on September 14 and then travel to Uzbekistan for the SCO summit, where he will meet with Russian President Putin.
Kazakh Opposition Organizing Against Snap Elections
By Catherine Putz
Although no date has been set, Kazakhstan’s likely imminent presidential election has drawn sharp criticism from opposition figures.
Kazakh President Tokayev Visits Northern Region Affected by Wildfires
By Catherine Putz
Forest fires in northern Kazakhstan were brought under control but demonstrate serious future risks as temperatures rise and droughts intensify.
Kazakhstan and Singapore Look to Boost Economic Links
By Wilder Alejandro Sánchez
Investment opportunities in the trade and commerce sectors, particularly related to transportation and the Middle Corridor, may prompt closer bilateral ties.
Kazakh Leader Calls for Snap Presidential Election
By Catherine Putz
The Kazakh president, whose constitutional referendum this summer aimed to bring about a "New" Kazakhstan, has moved, rhetorically, on to speaking of a “Just” Kazakhstan.
Russia Voices Aim to Increase Combat Readiness at Bases in Central Asia
By Catherine Putz
The recent comment from Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu echoes sentiments stated before, but it's not clear if it means anything in a practical sense.