Kyrgyzstan
770,000 migrants told to leave Russia
Deportation regime activated for largely Central Asian nationals amid crackdown critics describe as xenophobic.
Putin pushes Central Asia for North-South trade corridor steps, analyst notes Kremlin’s “Turkic bloc” anxiety
To Moscow, “the fact that the Turks are united is alarming,” he says.
Putin calls for Central Asia to boost trade with Russia
With Moscow preoccupied by Ukraine, China has raced ahead in building up commerce and investment with the region. Other powers are also looking for bigger pieces of the pie.
Putin arrives in Tajikistan for meetings with Central Asia, CIS leaders
Calls made for Tajiks to arrest Russian leader under international court warrant, but Dushanbe remains strategic ally of Kremlin.
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How Central Asia came to love the Chinese electric vehicle invasion
Resistance would be futile – and expensive. The region has flung its doors open to the likes of BYD.
Low reservoir water levels mean tough winter for hydro-dependent Kyrgyzstan
Energy minister says government taking measures to prevent blackouts.
Kyrgyzstan’s president Japarov demands return of death penalty after brutal rape and murder of schoolgirl
Populist leader has taken personal control of investigation. Killing comes days after snap elections were announced.
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COMMENT: How Kyrgyzstan is becoming a Chinese province
Central Asia lies at the crossroads of major geopolitical and regional interests. Until recently, the countries of the region managed to balance between Russia, China, Turkey, and the collective West. Now China plays an increasingly impoortant role.
Kyrgyzstan to hold early parliamentary elections
Leaders likely looking for more stability in already sedate political environment.
China-Iran rail link slashes transit time to 17 days, official says
A new rail route through Central Asia has reduced freight transit time between China and Iran to 17 days, with car parts following in record time.
EBRD says geopolitics, tariffs and China competition weigh on Emerging Europe growth
Development bank downgrades 2025 forecasts for Central and Eastern Europe citing weak external demand, rising debt and the impact of US tariffs.
Sanctions imposed on Kyrgyzstan are “interference” in internal affairs, Japarov protests at UN
Hits out at major powers for double standards. Also calls for an end to economic isolation of Afghanistan.
Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan deemed twin hotbeds of innovation – global survey
The two states drive Central and South Asia’s rise in a global ranking.
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Photoshopping of three Central Asian presidents exposed by media investigation
Seemingly perfect postures, pearly white smiles, smooth skin and luxurious grey hair among flawless features subject to spot-the-difference analysis.
Washington has “surrendered” in the Central Asia battle for influence, says ex-ambassador
Russia and China now dominate narrative across region, Daniel N. Rosenblum tells students at Yale. If US cuts itself off from the world, “we will ultimately be less secure and less prosperous,” he warns.
Two more journalists jailed in Kyrgyzstan in fresh blow to press freedom
Prosecutors did not present evidence to substantiate conviction.
Fuel prices in Kyrgyzstan rocket as Ukraine steps up drone strikes on Russian refineries
Central Asian country relies on Russia for nine-tenths of its fuel.
Kyrgyzstan building mega dam in “very dangerous place”, says Academy of Sciences head in earthquake warning
Officials deny pushing ahead with multibillion-dollar Kambarata-1 hydroelecric project with inadequate seismic surveys.
Central Asia, India see untapped trade potential but face connectivity hurdles
Joint report by Eurasian Development Bank and India Exim Bank reveals significant potential for mutual trade and investment held back by logistical bottlenecks.
COMMENT: Need and loathing in Russia – unpacking the labour migration paradox
Central Asian guest workers face growing hardship.