Dushanbe (TDI): Russian President, Vladimir Putin, called for deeper integration between Russia and Central Asian states during the Russia-Central Asia summit in Tajikistan.
Alongside regular agenda, the summit is seen as a platform through which Moscow seeks to solidify its influence in a region where Russia’s traditional dominance is increasingly challenged by China and growing local assertiveness.
Putin emphasized the importance of strengthening trade, energy cooperation, and regional security. He noted that trade turnover between Russia and Central Asia surpassed $45 billion in the past year.
Among the initiatives discussed were joint projects in energy, including upgrades to hydropower stations and potential collaboration on Russian-built nuclear facilities.
Security concerns featured prominently in the discussions, particularly the threat of terrorism and instability emanating from neighboring Afghanistan.
Putin reiterated Russia’s commitment to supporting the region in combating extremism, drug trafficking, and cross-border crime, offering Russian assistance in intelligence sharing and border control.
Read More: Uzbekistan Positions Itself as a Key Player in Central Asia–Russia Cooperation
The summit concluded with the adoption of a joint communiqué and a multi-year action plan designed to guide cooperation through 2027.
While the tone was one of mutual commitment and strategic partnership, the underlying dynamics revealed the complexities of Moscow’s current position in Central Asia.
Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine and the resulting Western sanctions have strained its economic and military capacities, making its promises to Central Asia harder to fulfill.
At the same time, Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative and the growing involvement of Western and Gulf countries have provided Central Asian states with alternatives to Russian influence, leading them to pursue a more balanced and diversified foreign policy.
Another sensitive issue raised at the summit was labor migration. Millions of Central Asian workers live in Russia, sending home vital remittances. However, recent crackdowns and rising xenophobia in Russia have created unease.
Central Asian leaders face public pressure to protect their citizens abroad while also balancing good relations with Moscow.
Established in December 2008, The Diplomatic Insight is Pakistan’s premier diplomacy and foreign affairs magazine, available in both digital and print formats.
