The prospects for the development of Central Asian countries, taking into account existing global challenges and their reflection in the regional foreign policy agenda, were discussed by participants of the international conference: "The Image of the Future of Central Asian Countries in a Changing World 2024: Global Threats and Challenges. Allies and Opponents in Addressing Economic and Humanitarian Issues," which took place in Bishkek. The event was organized by the Center for Expert Initiatives "Oy Ordo" and the information-analytical portal "Vostochny Express 24".
The development of events in Afghanistan is causing serious concern, as Afghanistan continues to live in a state of absolute socio-political unpredictability, noted Igor Shestakov, Director of the Center for Expert Initiatives "Oy Ordo". At the same time, numerous terrorist and extremist groups currently located in this country could invade the territory of Central Asia at any moment.
Equally relevant for regional security, according to the expert, is the water issue, the solution of which is crucial for envisioning a stable future for Central Asia.
- At the same time, the problem should be considered not only from a regional perspective but also taking into account geopolitical factors. Western countries have a significant influence on the situation, as they support, for example, the construction of the Kushka Canal in Afghanistan, acting without regard to the national interests of Central Asian countries. After the pandemic, the issue of biosecurity has become traditional, which concerns not only the lives and health of citizens but also serves as an element of geopolitical struggle, explained the political scientist.
In turn, Vladimir Loginov, Chief Editor of the Information-Analytical Portal "Vostochny Express 24," noted: "if we imagine the Central Asian agenda in the form of tags, then for the countries of the region, they will be as follows: sovereignty, economic freedom, security as a guarantee of freedom, historical commonality, biosecurity, water resources."
- To understand all these factors, I would add "geography" here as well. The proximity of Central Asia to Russia and China is a given that cannot be overridden by calls to detach the region from its larger neighbors. It is good that this is understood by the elites, experts, and the population of Central Asian republics.
Russia is essentially in a state of war today, and this fact undoubtedly affects its allies. However, it is obvious that the sanction policy of Western countries does not bring the expected results - both the Russian economy and the economies of the Central Asian countries feel excellent, emphasized the speaker.
This fact, according to him, causes not only bewilderment and irritation among the countries of the collective Western bloc but also a desire to change the situation at all costs.
- There is information that part of the funds from the package of US military aid to Ukraine will be directed to organizing protest actions in Central Asian countries, which will be organized through non-governmental organizations, - said V. Loginov.
Source: Center for Expert Initiatives "Oy Ordo"
CentralasianLIGHT.org
May 24, 2024