Region
Central Asia
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.
The Islamic State vs. Russia in Afghanistan
By Lucas Webber
The Islamic State movement -- including its Afghanistan iteration -- is vehemently anti-Russia in orientation, criticizing its foreign and domestic policies.
‘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.
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.
New Head for UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan: Kyrgyzstan’s Roza Otunbayeva
By Catherine Putz
The choice of Otunbayeva reflects the UN’s ongoing concern about the rights of women and girls in Afghanistan.
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.
Taliban Again Demands Return of Afghan Aircraft in Central Asia
By Catherine Putz
The U.S. position on the matter hasn't budged: Afghan aircraft outside the country are unlikely to be flown back into Taliban hands.