Region

Central Asia

C5+Trump: Getting the US Down to Business in Central Asia

C5+Trump: Getting the US Down to Business in Central Asia

By Eric Rudenshiold
The region has become more connected to Europe and less dependent on Russia and China than when Trump was last in office. 

Kazakhstan’s BRICS Conundrum

Kazakhstan’s BRICS Conundrum

By Ayushi Saini and Rajoli Siddharth Jayaprakash
Astana has emphasized its commitment to strengthening its role as a close partner of BRICS while also stating that it will not seek membership.
Why Has High Speed Rail Failed in Kazakhstan?

Why Has High Speed Rail Failed in Kazakhstan?

By Joe Luc Barnes
Kazakhstan once harbored grand plans for a high-speed rail network. While its neighbors have pushed ahead with such projects, why has HSR fallen out of favor in Astana?

On Press Day, Kyrgyz Authorities Urge Journalists To Focus on Positive News

On Press Day, Kyrgyz Authorities Urge Journalists To Focus on Positive News

By Catherine Putz
“Let’s write about our country in a positive light and try to focus less on negative news,” Cabinet head Akylbek Japarov said.

Kyrgyzstan’s Vape Ban: Clean Lungs or Dirty Lobbying?

Kyrgyzstan’s Vape Ban: Clean Lungs or Dirty Lobbying?

By Aigerim Turgunbaeva
Banning domestic vape sales while preserving manufacturing for export may simply serve to expand the shadow market and line the pockets of customs officials. 

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

Central Asian Leaders Swift to Send Congratulatory Notes to Trump

Central Asian Leaders Swift to Send Congratulatory Notes to Trump

By Catherine Putz
The messages provide a glimpse as to what the Central Asian states wish to see from the next U.S. administration and how they aim to position themselves.

The Men Jailed in Uzbekistan for Fighting Russia’s War in Ukraine 

The Men Jailed in Uzbekistan for Fighting Russia’s War in Ukraine 

By Catherine Putz
The stories of three men jailed this year in Uzbekistan for taking part in Russia’s war in Ukraine together tell a tale of desperation and exploitation.
Chinese Investment in Kazakhstan Deepens With $2.5 Billion in New Deals

Chinese Investment in Kazakhstan Deepens With $2.5 Billion in New Deals

By Catherine Putz
Although branded as commercial deals, most of the agreements involve a steel and mining company recently acquired and renamed by a state-owned private equity firm in the wake of a tragic mining accident.

Russia Still a Cold Front for Central Asian Migrants

Russia Still a Cold Front for Central Asian Migrants

By Niginakhon Saida
Do Russian demands for stricter measures against labor migrants mark a shift in Moscow’s relationship with Central Asia?

Germany to Deport Another Tajik Group 24 Activist 

Germany to Deport Another Tajik Group 24 Activist 

By Catherine Putz
Over the last decade, Tajikistan has pursued Group 24 activists around the world.

The BRICS Summit in Kazan and the Limits of Western Influence

The BRICS Summit in Kazan and the Limits of Western Influence

By Dilnoza Ubaydullaeva
While it may not yet be a powerful alliance, BRICS has the potential to be an attractive alternative for the countries of the Global South to pursue their national interests.
Is Uzbekistan’s EAEU Membership Dead in the Water?

Is Uzbekistan’s EAEU Membership Dead in the Water?

By Joe Luc Barnes
Despite Moscow’s diplomatic overtures, Uzbekistan announced on October 17 that it will not be pursuing full membership in the Eurasian Economic Union. 

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