Central Asia, a region rich in history and cultural diversity, comprising Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, has long been a focal point for global powers seeking cooperation and engagement. Over the past three decades since their independence from the Soviet Union, these nations have explored various forms of collaboration, both internally and with external partners. Now, a new movement is emerging from within the region itself, signaling the re-emergence of the desire for a unified association: an Association of Central Asian States.
The unique historical background of Central Asia sets it apart from Western norms. Shaped by centuries of influence from empires such as the Byzantine, Tsarist Russia, and the Soviet Union, the region's journey to independence was not without its challenges. However, visionary leaders like Nursultan Nazarbayev of Kazakhstan have spearheaded efforts to modernize and internationalize their nations, laying the groundwork for a new era of cooperation.
Despite initial expectations of Uzbekistan emerging as the dominant player in the region due to its educated populace and advanced industrial sector, it remained entrenched in Soviet-era legacies under President Islam Karimov. However, under President Shavkat Mirziyoyev's leadership, Uzbekistan has started to embrace internationalization, akin to Kazakhstan.
Since their independence, Central Asian states have grappled with the challenge of establishing effective regional and international structures to foster cooperation. In 1994, the Central Asia Union was established, but its potential was hindered by Tajikistan's civil war and Turkmenistan's policy of non-alignment. Subsequently, the Central Asian Cooperation Organization was formed but faded away by 2005.
Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin played a significant role in creating the Commonwealth Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), which prioritized membership over other regional affiliations. Despite this, Central Asian states joined the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), although the addition of Pakistan, India, and Iran diluted their influence. Additionally, Europe established the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), while NATO offered the Partnership for Peace program to post-Soviet states. Despite these efforts, regional organizations like the Organization of Turkic States have emerged, showcasing the ongoing importance of forming alliances with Central Asian nations.
In 2018, a shift occurred within Central Asia, marked by the initiation of regular regional summits without external participants. This movement stemmed directly from the U.S. C5+1 format led by then-Secretary of State John Kerry in 2015, emphasizing practical outcomes over mere discussion. This practical approach led to the first Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia in 2018, proposed by Uzbekistan and hosted by Kazakhstan. Inspired by examples like ASEAN and the Nordic Council, subsequent summits have convened in various Central Asian capitals, with the latest held in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, including an honored guest from Azerbaijan. A Council of Coordinators has been established to foster cooperation and pragmatic outcomes.
Now, calls are growing louder for the formal establishment of an Association of Central Asian States. Such an organization would allow the five nations to maintain their sovereignty while fostering deeper collaboration across various sectors. The emergence of the Middle Corridor for China-to-Europe trade presents a compelling opportunity for enhanced regional integration, particularly in finance, trade, and business.
Harmonizing tariffs, establishing a Central Asia Regional Chamber of Commerce, and creating sector-specific coordination platforms are among the initiatives that could drive economic growth and prosperity in the region. The current momentum, evidenced by initiatives like the U.S. C5+1 and the recent Dushanbe Summit, underscores the readiness of Central Asian states to embrace a new era of cooperation.
As the region looks towards the future, the establishment of an Association of Central Asian States holds the promise of unlocking the full potential of this dynamic and strategic region.
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