Blog
Crossroads Asia
Why Mongolia Is Steering Clear of Full Membership in the SCO
By Bolor Lkhaajav
Mongolia was the first observer state in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, and it has been content to remain there even as other countries upgrade to member status.
Kyrgyz Journalist Bolot Temirov Acquitted of Drugs Charges, Released
By Catherine Putz
And so ends a prosecution that many human rights activists characterized as persecution.
The Difficult Path Toward De-escalation on the Kyrgyz-Tajik Border
By Catherine Putz
A protocol reportedly signed over the weekend would see both vacate four border posts each but is shadowed by domestic critiques in Kyrgyzstan and a lack of clarity in Tajikistan.
Kazakh President Urges Calm and Care for Russians Fleeing Mobilization
By Catherine Putz
“We must take care of them and ensure their safety. This is a political and humanitarian issue,” Kazakh President Tokayev said of the influx of Russians.
China, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan Move Railway Plans Forward With Agreement at SCO
By Catherine Putz
Under the September 14 agreement, the three parties will jointly fund a feasibility study of a proposed route through Kyrgyzstan necessary to bring the CKU Railway into being.
Kazakhstan Continues to Break Ranks With Russia
By Wilder Alejandro Sánchez
The not-so-subtle criticism of the Russian government regarding Ukraine in Kazakh President Tokayev’s UNGA speech should not be overlooked.
As Russia Mobilizes, Central Asian Embassies Warn Citizens Against Joining a Foreign War
By Catherine Putz
The risks of Central Asian migrant workers being pressured into joining Russia’s war effort have intensified in tandem with Moscow’s desperation.
Mongolia, Australia Celebrate 50 Years of Diplomatic Relations
By Bolor Lkhaajav
Australia and Mongolia established ties in 1972, but their relationship began to pick up steam much more recently.
Kyrgyz-Tajik Conflict Escalates Even Though Presidents Met at SCO
By Catherine Putz
That after 30 years, various Kyrgyz presidents and Rahmon -- who has been Tajik president since 1994 -- have not been able to settle the border is a major failing.
More than a ‘Border Skirmish’ Between Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan
By Aijan Sharshenova
The recent outbreak of hostilities on the Kyrgyz-Tajik border represents a dangerous escalation from previous tension and skirmishes to a distinct act of aggression.
Xinjiang Kazakh Plans Political Party to Counter China’s Xi
By Dake Kang
Despite Xi’s warm official reception in Kazakhstan, the general population is disturbed by reports of oppression aimed at Kazakhs in China.
Large Kazakhstani Bank to Sell Stake in Telecoms Company
By Paolo Sorbello
Jusan Bank, linked to the country’s former president, will divest from Kcell.