French President Emmanuel Macron is embarking on a visit to Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, aiming to secure energy resources and expand France's influence in Central Asia, a region traditionally under Russia's influence, Bloomberg reports.
Energy Security and Uranium Supply
France, which heavily relies on nuclear power for its energy needs, is keen on securing its supply of uranium. Macron's visit to Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan aims to ensure a stable source of uranium, essential for the operation of France's nuclear reactors. Kazakhstan has historically been a significant supplier of uranium to France, and deeper collaboration in this sector is on the agenda during Macron's trip.
Impact of Niger Coup
France's interest in securing uranium resources has grown in urgency due to a coup in Niger, the second-largest supplier of uranium to the European Union after Kazakhstan. The coup had disrupted uranium processing operations in Niger.
The broader geopolitical context of Macron's visit involves Central Asia's strategic importance. Central Asia's vast reserves of oil, gas, and minerals have made the region a battleground for global influence. While Russia has traditionally dominated the region, other players, including China and the United States, are seeking to strengthen their presence.
The Middle Corridor
One of the key developments in Central Asia is the growing importance of the Middle Corridor, a transportation and trade pathway connecting Asia and Europe. This corridor provides an alternative route that bypasses Russia, offering a land-based connection between China and Europe.
France's Expanding Reach in Asia
Macron's efforts to deepen ties with Central Asian nations come as France faces increasing limitations within its traditional sphere of influence. Coups and evolving geopolitical dynamics have constrained France's maneuverability. Thus, Macron is exploring alliances in Russia's backyard, a region where France is a relatively new player. His strategy extends to Asia, where he is working to expand France's influence.
Central Asian Ambivalence and Commercial Relationships
Central Asian countries have displayed ambivalence toward the war in Ukraine. While they adhere to Western sanctions against Russia on paper, they are also navigating evolving commercial relationships. Macron's visit coincides with this period of transition, providing an opportunity for France to engage with these nations.
Accompanying Macron on his trip is a delegation of 15 business leaders from various sectors, including energy, agrifood, and mining. French companies, such as Electricite de France and Assystem, are interested in exploring opportunities in Central Asia, including Kazakhstan's plans for a nuclear power plant and the extraction of rare-earth metals. These endeavors align with Macron's calls for reducing France's reliance on Chinese raw materials and expanding its presence in Asia.
Diversification Away from Russian Influence
One of the underlying motives of Macron's visit is to encourage Central Asian nations to diversify their economic and political ties away from Russia, particularly in the wake of the war in Ukraine. The crisis in Ukraine has shaken long-established relationships in the region, presenting an opening for countries like France to foster new partnerships.
Earlier Daryo reported that Uzbekistan triples uranium exports to EU.
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