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In March 2022, Central Asia was highlighted in the foreign press in the context of Russia’s war in Ukraine, in particular the statements of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan recognising Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity; the negative impact of sanctions on the economies of the region; some restrictions on assembly rights in Kyrgyzstan; the first deaths of Central Asian nationals in the Russian army in Ukraine; the investment forum held in Tashkent.
In February 2022, Central Asia was highlighted in the foreign press in light of the looming economic crisis in the region due to Russian military actions in Ukraine; the disclosure of secret bank accounts of the Kazakh president; the potentially dangerous situation in GBAO; the transit of power in Turkmenistan; and the humanitarian disaster in neighbouring Afghanistan.
The hasty withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan and the rise to power of the Taliban riveted the world’s attention to Central Asia. The world press is discussing the new balance of power of the leading powers in the region; and how climate change can exacerbate border conflicts.
In the foreign press lately, the Central Asian countries have been increasingly mentioned in the context of the deteriorating situation in Afghanistan. However, in the region itself, no less important and interesting processes are taking place.
May of 2021 in Central Asia is remembered for the end of Ramadan and pardon of prisoners, trip of the presidents of two countries to Moscow, deficit of air tickets and difficult yet encouraging epidemiological situation in the region. CABAR.asia provides a brief review of the most significant events in the region that took place last month.