On 12 April, IAIS Chinese Studies Club, curated by Dr. Abbos Bobokhonov, hosted a Frontier Talkssession. The discussion featured Dr. Valentin Krüsmann, a researcher of the Centre for East European and International Studies (ZOiS), Germany. It focused on China’s foreign policy and its strategic interests in Central Asia.

The session examined the economic foundations of China’s engagement with Central Asia, especially in the spheres of energy, natural resources, infrastructure, and green development. It was noted that the region holds continuing importance for China’s energy security and long-term industrial growth, while at the same time raising questions about asymmetric interdependence, debt exposure, and the need for more effective financial governance.

The discussion also addressed the still-limited reach of Chinese soft power in the region, where cultural, social, and political differences continue to constrain deeper public engagement despite the expansion of large-scale initiatives such as the Belt and Road.

The meeting concluded with a broader reflection on Central Asia’s growing international significance and on the importance of maintaining a strategic, transparent, and diversified approach to cooperation with China. The Frontier Talks session provided an important platform for academic exchange on the evolving regional role of China and underscored the value of sustained expert dialogue on issues at the intersection of connectivity, security, and regional development.