China takes Central Asia into its sphere of influence and squeezes Russia out

Taking on a new leadership position in the Central Asia region that has historically been a Russian sphere of influence, Chinese President Xi Jinping outlined a comprehensive plan for Central Asia’s development, including constructing infrastructure and fostering trade.

During a conference with Central Asian nations on May 19, Chinese President Xi Jinping declared that China would work to modernize Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, as reported by Reuters.

In light of the G7 conference, Xi Jinping stresses the importance of unity in Central Asia.

The world requires a prosperous, peaceful, and stable Central Asia with strong internal connections, according to Xi.

The Chinese leader urged all of these nations, as well as China, to “resist external interference” in their internal affairs and attempts to instigate “color revolutions,” as well as to maintain their stance of complete intolerance toward terrorism, separatism, and extremism. China underlined its willingness to support the region’s nations in enhancing their capacities for military, security, and law enforcement.

While Moscow’s focus is now on its failed war in Ukraine, Xi’s gathering of five heads of state on Chinese soil without the presence of Russian president Putin also moves Central Asia closer to China’s sphere of influence. The future of the former Soviet republics in Central Asia has been decided without Moscow.

The Chinese President announced that China would renew its bilateral investment agreements with summit attendees and enhance the volume of cross-border travel. To increase employment and streamline logistics, China will also support the Central Asian businesses it has helped.

For many years, Central Asia has been a key component of China’s “One Belt, One Road” geopolitical project. The construction of ports, power plants, and highways has cost billions in almost 150 nations, including Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.

Analysts point out that Beijing’s position in the region has improved due to Russia’s disastrous invasion of Ukraine, which trapped Moscow in sanctions.

Central Asia nations have understood that their relations with Russia are risky and have found it profitable to look for new economic and strategic guarantees. And here, their goal matches China’s interests. In contrast, Russia becomes the biggest loser of the conference.

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