The article by Nargiza Umarova, published by the CACI Analyst, examines the growing competition over trans-Afghan transport corridors, with Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and Iran advancing rival railway projects to connect Central Asia with Pakistan and China. The Taliban government has actively supported these initiatives, recognizing Afghanistan’s strategic position as a transit hub. While Uzbekistan promotes the Kabul Corridor (Termez-Mazar-i-Sharif-Kabul-Peshawar), Turkmenistan backs an alternative Torghundi-Herat-Kandahar-Spin Boldak route. Meanwhile, Iran is expanding its Chabahar-Zahedan railway toward Afghanistan, aiming to establish direct links with China via Herat through the China-Kyrgyzstan-Tajikistan-Afghanistan-Iran railway corridor (the “Five Nation Road”).   As the author states, Iran’s growing influence in Afghan transport infrastructure poses a challenge to Uzbekistan’s dominance in regional transit. While Tashkent initially planned to integrate with the Iran-backed Khaf-Herat railway, it shifted focus to the Kabul Corridor to protect its own transit interests. Tajikistan, historically skeptical of the Taliban, has become more engaged in trans-Afghan projects, collaborating with China and Korea to develop a railway link through Sherkhan Bandar. Meanwhile, Turkmenistan’s TAT corridor and the Lapis Lazuli trade route offer alternative links to Turkey and Europe, increasing regional competition for control over Afghan trade routes.   The intensifying rivalry between Iran-backed and Central Asia-backed transport corridors has significant geopolitical and economic implications. Uzbekistan faces growing competition from Iran and China, while Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan could gain strategic leverage by securing direct access to China and Afghanistan. To balance regional interests and avoid external dependence, Central Asian states must coordinate their transport strategies, ensuring Afghanistan’s emergence as a transit hub benefits all stakeholders equitably.   Read the article on CACI Analyst   * The Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS) does not take institutional positions on any issues; the views represented herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the IAIS.

This policy brief, supported by the PeaceNexus Foundation and co-authored by Hamza Boltaev, Head of the Centre for Afghanistan and South Asian Studies, offers an in-depth analysis of regional non-governmental initiatives in Central Asia. The study brings together perspectives from researchers across Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan to examine the evolution, challenges, and success factors of civil society efforts in the region.   Focusing on thematic clusters such as climate change, gender issues, religion, migration, and socio-economic development, the research evaluates strategies employed by NGOs to foster collaboration, address shared vulnerabilities, and strengthen social cohesion. Particular attention is given to initiatives that align with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and promote regional identity through cultural, environmental, and economic cooperation.   The PeaceNexus Foundation’s role in supporting this research underscores its commitment to enhancing the capacity of non-governmental actors to address conflict-sensitive issues and contribute to sustainable peace. Hamza Boltaev’s contributions specifically highlight advancements in religious dialogue and the role of sports in fostering inclusivity and unity.   This publication concludes with actionable recommendations for policymakers, civil society, and development partners to enhance regional networks, strengthen NGO-government collaboration, and implement sustainable strategies for regional cooperation. It serves as a vital resource for fostering resilience, cohesion, and peacebuilding across Central Asia.   Read the policy brief   * The Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS) does not take institutional positions on any issues; the views represented herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the IAIS.

Nargiza Umarova, a Senior Research Fellow at the Institute for Advanced International Studies, in her new article, published by The Jamestown Foundation, a examines Moscow’s expanding efforts to establish additional transportation links to Afghanistan and explains how these initiatives reflect Russia’s broader geopolitical and economic aims. According to the author, the Kremlin is eager to secure alternative trade routes at a time when Western sanctions have curtailed Russia’s access to many global markets. In seeking to work with Afghanistan, Russian authorities not only hope to lessen the impact of sanctions but also strive to assert influence over key transit corridors in Central Asia.   By extending rail and road infrastructure toward Afghanistan, Moscow can position itself as a key player in the region, exert leverage over the Taliban government, and potentially regulate—or at least monitor—the flow of goods, people, and security threats along its southern periphery. Overall, Nargiza Umarova argues that these transport and trade expansions serve both Russia’s near-term economic interests and its long-standing ambition to remain the primary power broker in Central Asia.   Read the paper on The Jamestown Foundation’s website   * The Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS) does not take institutional positions on any issues; the views represented herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the IAIS.

In her new publication, Shakhzoda Jumaniyazova, a Research Fellow at the Centre for American Studies, notes that artificial intelligence (AI) today plays an important role in national security, helping to process data at an accelerated pace and identify threats of cyberattacks and information manipulation. The world's leading countries, including the United States, China, and Russia, are actively using AI to improve the effectiveness of military systems and defend against new risks.   However, as the author emphasises, the development of AI also brings challenges – from the vulnerability of algorithms to ethical disputes over the use of autonomous weapons. It is important for Uzbekistan to actively incorporate AI into its security strategy by developing international cooperation, creating a solid legal framework and supporting scientific research. This will not only strengthen the country’s security, but also allow it to adapt to the rapidly changing world of technology.   Read the policy brief (in Russian)   * The Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS) does not take institutional positions on any issues; the views represented herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the IAIS.

In a policy brief published in People’s Daily, Abbos Bobokhonov, Head of the China Programme at IAIS, examines China’s commitment to advancing Chinese-style modernization through innovation-driven strategies. The author highlights the significance of the Third Plenary Session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, which adopted the “Decision on Further Comprehensively Deepening Reform and Promoting Modernization with Chinese Characteristics”. This Decision, grounded in extensive research and consultations, focuses on people-centred reforms to ensure equitable development.   The paper underscores that China’s path to modernization, amidst global economic and geopolitical challenges, hinges on a pragmatic and gradual approach to reform and opening-up. The author notes that these efforts aim to empower citizens, foster innovation, and create a robust economic framework that balances market efficiency with effective governance.   Additionally, the author emphasises China’s plans to accelerate structural transformation by cultivating new productivity and enhancing innovation capacity. This reform agenda is also seen as an opportunity to strengthen ties with Central Asia, particularly through infrastructure and energy cooperation within the Belt and Road Initiative. The article concludes that China’s reform trajectory not only aims at domestic growth but also contributes to regional and global prosperity.   Read the policy brief on People’s Daily   * The Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS) does not take institutional positions on any issues; the views represented herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the IAIS.

In their new publication, Dr. Azamat Seitov et al. argue that the imperative for sustainable development has gained unprecedented relevance amid growing environmental challenges and the pressing need to transition to a green economy. They highlight the case of Uzbekistan, where economic modernisation increasingly incorporates environmental concerns, with initiatives addressing critical issues such as the Aral Sea crisis, water scarcity, and desertification. Recognising the global and regional urgency of these matters, Uzbekistan has adopted comprehensive strategies, including the Uzbekistan-2030 Strategy, aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, promoting renewable energy, and expanding green spaces, particularly in ecologically vulnerable regions like the Aral Sea basin.   Furthermore, the authors underscore Uzbekistan’s commitment to international frameworks like the Paris Agreement, framing the country’s transition to a green economy as a multidimensional effort to balance economic growth with ecological preservation. They detail specific measures, such as modernising energy infrastructure, enhancing resource efficiency, and fostering renewable energy initiatives, while addressing challenges like reliance on non-renewable resources and water scarcity. The strategy also prioritises sustainable agriculture, pollution reduction, and waste management, reflecting an integrative approach to long-term environmental resilience.   In addition, it is discussed that the broader implications of Uzbekistan’s green transition, including its economic benefits and alignment with global sustainable development goals. By implementing innovative technologies and fostering partnerships, such as collaborations with international companies for renewable energy projects, Uzbekistan aims to position itself as a leader in regional environmental policy. However, the authors caution that achieving these goals requires substantial investment, policy coherence, and robust international support, given the significant economic and logistical hurdles involved.   Read the paper here   * The Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS) does not take institutional positions on any issues; the views represented herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the IAIS.