After the collapse of the Soviet Union, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan have gained their independence. The characteristics of the region, some of which are the Turkish-Islamic identity, common history, common culture, and shared state borders, interconnect the fates of these newly independent states. Therefore, the cooperation and integration of these states are essential for the security of the ...Read more >

This paper takes issue with the U.S. narrative that Chinese activities in Central Asia are, on balance, damaging to the interests of those countries. It notes that these states leverage China’s involvement to address development and security challenges that would otherwise be under-resourced, and that availing themselves of such leverage comports with U.S. interests in the region. It recommends that U.S. policy focus on elevating its diplomatic presence and on assisting ...Read more >

The history of the development of Islamic radicalism in Uzbekistan, and in Central Asia more generally, is a potentially contentious one. There is very little agreement either within the policy community in the U.S. or in these countries themselves, as to what Islamic radicalism is, and who among devout Muslims should be considered as posing a threat to the secular ...Read more >

• In recent years, Beijing has increased security cooperation with Central Asian countries under the auspices of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) to insulate itself from perceived threats in the region. Beijing is using the SCO to enhance its ability to project power beyond its borders. • SCO military exercises offer a unique opportunity for the Chinese armed forces to practice air-ground combat operations in foreign countries, undertaking a range of operations including ...Read more >