Afghanistan-Central Asia relations

The Afghanistan issue gives Moscow another reason to remain closely engaged in the security affairs of Central Asia.

The Qosh Tepa canal issue essentially forces the Central Asian nations in the Amu Darya basin to make tradeoffs between regional instability and internal instability.

Pakistan skipped the meeting, while Russia has proposed a new effort to build “regional consensus” – a G-5.

The joint statement contains barely concealed criticism of the West while offering the same bland suggestions as the West.

By virtue of geography, Dushanbe is a critical actor in the international community’s ongoing engagement with Afghanistan.

Central Asian countries have begun coordinating their responses to the worsening security situation in Afghanistan. 

As the U.S. looks to station over-the-horizon capabilities to address issues in Afghanistan, Central Asia is an obvious locale.

"If such a step is taken, then the responsibility for all the misfortunes and difficulties lies upon those who commit such mistakes.”

The withdrawal of U.S. troops from Afghanistan may produce new security threats, but there will be economic consequences as well. 

Military officials in Russia and Central Asia agree to unite efforts as they prepare for a worsening of the situation in Afghanistan. 

A detailed look at the Afghan border, a discussion of dictators, and a secret report on Semipalatinsk; recommended reads.