The United States is aiming to expand its diplomatic and economic footprint in Central Asia, with a high-level summit between the president and the region’s five leaders planned for November 6.
The meeting, which has been confirmed by the presidents of Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, comes at a time of shifting alliances. Russia’s long-term influence is being questioned.
This has created an opening for other powers. China, the EU, and the US are all now actively vying for stronger partnerships with the C5.
The region, home to 80 million people, is rich in natural resources and is working to revive its historical role as a key trade corridor.
This Washington summit is the latest move in a new “Great Game,” as the US seeks to counter its rivals and secure its own interests in this vital region.