Tag: Kyrgyzstan

  • Will the Turkic States Group Become a Major International Player?

    Will the Turkic States Group Become a Major International Player?

    Turkic and Turkey might sound confusing, like Turkey the bird and Turkey the country, but there’s a distinction. Turkey is a Turkic state, but not all Turkic states are Turkey. Let’s not drag this into more confusion: Turkic states are a group that includes Turkey. They share a common ethnic background, similar language, cuisine, and almost identical culture, extending from Kazakhstan to Turkey. This includes most Central Asian countries except Tajikistan, the Caucasian state Azerbaijan, and Turkey (Türkiye). Some even include Hungary due to historical and linguistic ties.

    Currently, these countries are part of an evolving group that can influence Asian politics, global politics, and the global economy. They support and care for each other, with kebabs being a beloved symbol of their shared culture. Historically, the political evolution of this group was limited due to Russian influence. Now, they are free and more united.

    The Organization of Turkic States (OTS) is the union of Turkic states that we are discussing. It includes Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Azerbaijan, and Turkey as full members, with Turkmenistan, Hungary, and Northern Cyprus as observers. The OTS was founded in 2009 to strengthen the bond between these countries. During the 8th summit in 2021, the organization was restructured to enhance cooperation, with refreshed objectives ranging from trade to extradition agreements. While many believe the OTS’ main aim is cooperation and growth, others think the organization’s main objective is the cultural revival of Muslim Turkic culture and protection from external influences, such as Russia’s historical cultural integration with Central Asian countries. As OTS eagerly pursues expanded trade relations with the West, the leaders of Turkic states in Eurasia are cautious about importing Western values. 

    The latest summit of the OTS was held in Azerbaijan, showcasing the dichotomy of interests among the Turkic heads of state. Hosted by Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev in the Nagorno-Karabakh town of Shusha, a region recently recaptured from Armenia, Aliyev highlighted in his opening remarks his vision for the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) to become an influential global entity capable of protecting regional interests from outside influence. He emphasized that the OTS should become one of the prominent international forces, stressing the commitment of their peoples to traditional values and shared ethnic roots that closely bind their countries. According to him, the 21st century must be a century of progress for the Turkic world.

    After praising traditional values and shared heritage, Aliyev stressed the significance of enhancing trade, declaring, “Expanding the East-West transport corridor is among our foremost priorities”. His sentiments were echoed by other participants, including Kazakhstan’s president, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, who stressed the need to utilize the full potential of the Trans-Caspian international transport route. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who attended the Shusha summit, referred to the OTS as a “Very important organization for cooperation between the West and East”.

    Aliyev urged his fellow heads of state to show greater commitment to the OTS through increased budget allocations, noting Azerbaijan’s recent $2 million contribution to enhance the OTS secretariat. They recognize the economic potential of the bloc, as member countries are rich in minerals and generate significant revenue from their resources. With Russia’s influence weakening, superpowers such as China, India, Korea, and the United States are keen to explore opportunities in the region. It is believed that uniting these countries will increase their scope and opportunities.

    Political scientists believe that the OTS represents a solution for Turkic leaders to navigate their complex political relationships. Aliyev’s efforts to bolster the OTS come at a time when Baku’s relations with the West have deteriorated. Over the past year, Aliyev and other top Azerbaijani officials have openly expressed grievances against the U.S., France, and major European bodies. In his inaugural address in February, Aliyev signaled further divergence from the West, speaking enthusiastically about pan-Turkic cooperation. Although Aliyev appreciates ties with Russia, they maintain a certain distance. Azerbaijan frequently boasts of its friendship with Pakistan, considers Turkey a brother, and is open to cooperation with India and Iran for trade. While trade is welcome, maintaining Turkic identity is their top priority. This sentiment is shared by other Turkic states, which rely on trade with various superpowers  but prioritize their cultural unity and Turkic identity.

    It’s certain that the OTS has great potential. With its strategically important location, population, economy, minerals, and everything necessary to grow into a superpower, they can impact world dynamics akin to the impact of the EU on global dynamics. United, they will gain more bargaining power and can effectively utilize their resources, particularly minerals currently in high global demand. The geographical area, intersecting important trade routes across all directions, west to east and north to south, will promote their growth. So, if they remain united, as Aliyev said, it’s a century for the Turkic world. 

  • Why Pakistanis Were Targeted In Kyrgyzstan

    Why Pakistanis Were Targeted In Kyrgyzstan

    Former Soviet Union republics are well-known destinations for South Asia’s medical education aspirants. Students from South Asian countries fly in large numbers to Russia, Ukraine, Georgia, and Kyrgyzstan to pursue medical degrees at a cheaper rate and with better quality than in their home countries. The governments in the former Soviet Union countries promote this because these students provide a significant amount of money to their economy. However, although South Asian countries value and respect doctors educated in former Soviet states, the poor living conditions and overpopulation lead many of these doctors to seek opportunities in other countries or to stay in the countries where they graduated. While Indian students, who are comparatively better off financially, often move to other countries, most Pakistanis prefer to stay. As a predominantly Muslim former central state, Kyrgyzstan, is a popular destination for Pakistani students, who are there in significant numbers. Although, the Kyrgyz people, struggling with economic difficulties and a lack of jobs, are not happy with this situation.

    Long-simmering xenophobia in Kyrgyzstan erupted in a violent clash between Kyrgyz youth and Pakistani students. The harmful fight left dozens injured and prompted hundreds of Pakistani students to flee from the country. According to a statement issued by the Kyrgyzstan Ministry of Internal Affairs, the issue began on the night of May 12, when a comparatively minor incident on the street led to the mishappenings. Following the issues on the street, four Kyrgyz youths allegedly pursued the Pakistani nationals into their dormitory and proceeded to cause mayhem. According to reports, the four Kyrgyz youths who entered the dorm stole an estimated $2,800 in cash as well as personal property of the residents. The Pakistani version of events claims the issue ensued when the Kyrgyz youths allegedly began harassing female dorm residents, which developed into a violent clash between the Kyrgyz youth group and Pakistani students. Kyrgyz individuals too injured in the fight, a videos went viral through social media, it sparked outrage among some Kyrgyz people who consider the May 12 incident as a “Humiliation for their Nation”. At the elevation of Rage, One week later, on the night of May 17, a mob of about 700 people approached the same dormitory, demanding justice. They proceeded to attack any foreign student they could find, instilling significant fear in the foreign population.

    Kyrgyz authorities are trying to defuse tension that could severely impact their foreign relations and reassure the foreign students who contribute significantly to the economy. Kyrgyzstan, in a poor economic condition since the collapse of the Soviet Union, is actively seeking investments to exploit its valuable minerals and needs foreign collaboration to improve its economic situation. They are engaging in discussions with representatives from China, the United States, India to attract more investments. Despite Pakistan’s economic challenges, its middle-class population can help support Kyrgyzstan’s educational institutions. However, the targeting of Pakistani students, who have been reported in criminal activities in other countries they migrate to, is a significant blow to Kyrgyzstan and could further damage the country’s image and deter potential investors. Understanding the gravity of the situation, the deputy head of the Kyrgyz Cabinet, Edil Baisalov, visited the dormitory on May 19, offering an apology and extending a security guarantee. “Your parents and relatives should know that there is no threat to you in Kyrgyzstan, and that authorities bear full responsibility for your well-being. The events of one night do not reflect the attitude of our people towards you”, Baisalov assured the students and teachers present.

    The problem escalated to the diplomatic level as well. When the media, especially social media, spread attack visuals and student comments rapidly, it filled their home countries with fear. The day after the attack, Pakistani Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif expressed concern on Twitter about “The situation of Pakistani students in Bishkek” and directed the country’s ambassador to assist the victims. Pakistani authorities also organized charter flights to bring home any student who felt unsafe continuing their studies in Bishkek. Over 20000 Pakistani students in Kyrgyzstan had opted to return home. Kyrgyzstan President Sadyr Japarov announced that Pakistani students injured in the melee would not have to pay for medical care. He also blamed unnamed opposition forces for stoking the xenophobic outburst and vowed that any repetition of such violence would be swiftly crushed. However, it seems that more xenophobic incidents have been reported, targeting Indian and other foreign nationals as well.

    There are reports that resentment is building among Kyrgyz people over the perception that foreigners, especially from South Asia, are displacing Kyrgyz workers in some sectors of the economy. While Kyrgyzstan is a major source of labor migrants working in Russia, the Persian Gulf, and elsewhere abroad, the Central Asian nation is also attracting labor migrants to fill some of the most menial jobs. Lack of jobs and prosperity often leads to hatred and xenophobia toward foreigners in many countries, and it is the same underlying reason for the violence in Kyrgyzstan. Pakistani students have become scapegoats for this violence, which is essentially an outburst of frustration from people leading difficult lives.

  • How Are Trade Barrier Reforms Progressing In Central Asian States?

    How Are Trade Barrier Reforms Progressing In Central Asian States?

    The economy of the United States is its greatest asset. Instead of relying solely on its military, it utilizes the hegemony of the dollar and its economic might to forge partnerships with other countries. The United States’ financial contributions led to a West-leaning, communist-averse Europe after World War II. Similarly, it spurred the resurgence of East Asia by injecting capital and ensuring the market. The United States’ economic interests have played a significant role in mitigating full-scale conflicts in the Middle East. This strategy, centered on leveraging financial resources and markets to build alliances, is now expanding to encompass Central Asia. Central Asia, once hindered by the dominant influence of the Soviet Union and Russia, is now becoming more accessible to the United States. The US initiative in the region seeks to foster a market conducive to the prosperity of Central Asian states and to attract American investment, thereby strengthening ties with the United States. 

    Central Asian states have long been characterized by trade barriers, bureaucratic hurdles, and regulatory complexities, greatly impeding economic progress. However, steps are currently being taken to tackle these challenges, representing a significant advancement towards creating a unified regional market similar to the streamlined documentation and policy frameworks found in Europe. Promoting the establishment of such a unified Central Asian market and facilitating smooth trade and service flow are fundamental elements of a regional economic strategy championed by the United States, known as the B5+1 initiative. Amidst a flurry of diplomatic engagements in mid-April, Central Asian leaders are actively exploring the potential of the B5+1 initiative. Launched in March, the B5+1 initiative assigns the five Central Asian nations, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, with the responsibility of spearheading efforts to promote regional free trade and enhance export opportunities.

    In recent times, geopolitical analysts have turned their attention to the growing interactions among Central Asian countries, spurred by the diminishing influence of Russia and the stagnating economic growth of  China . Notably, a multitude of discussions and agreements have unfolded in the region, often without the presence of Russia. A significant event occurred on April 18, when Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Tajik President Emomali Rahmon signed 28 interstate agreements spanning political, economic, and social realms. Noteworthy among these were two agreements aimed at bolstering trade between Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, with a focus on simplifying customs procedures at border checkpoints and safeguarding industrial property rights. Preceding Mirziyoyev’s visit, a joint investment forum in Dushanbe drew around 600 officials and business leaders from both nations. They expressed keen interest in collaborative ventures, particularly within the mining and renewable energy sectors, and sought to expand trade. Initiatives such as establishing a free trade zone at the Oybek-Fotekhobod border crossing and developing a logistics hub at Andarkhan were emphasized. Additionally, plans were unveiled to streamline permit requirements for freight-carrying trucks crossing the Tajik-Uzbek border. Despite bilateral trade reaching $505 million in 2023, officials aspire to elevate it to $2 billion in the near future. This ambition was echoed by Kazakhstan’s President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev during his agreements signing with Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov, underscoring the significance of facilitating cross-border movement and enhancing the exchange of manufactured goods. Subsequent to discussions with Japarov, Tokayev engaged in talks with Uzbekistan’s Mirziyoyev, likely focusing on regional trade dynamics. While details of these discussions were scarce, it was apparent that bilateral relations and regional cooperation were prioritized. However, challenges persist, notably between Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan, where trade turnover declined significantly due to ongoing border disputes and unmarked border areas. Additionally, Turkmenistan poses a significant obstacle to efforts aimed at promoting connectivity, with issues such as a severe shortage of qualified personnel hindering international cooperation within contractual frameworks. Nonetheless, Ashgabat’s interest in expanding regional trade appears substantial, as evidenced by the sizable delegation it dispatched to the inaugural B5+1 conference in Almaty.

    Recent diplomatic initiatives seem to have drawn the Kremlin’s attention, as it expresses concern that increased trade facilitation in Central Asia could lead to the expansion of commercial networks that bypass Russia. The ongoing developments aimed at streamlining trade processes in Central Asia appear to unsettle Moscow.  Nevertheless, landlocked countries with tough terrain require substantial investments in infrastructure to connect with the global economy. They traditionally rely on Russia, and China made a lot of road and rail networks under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). It is unlikely that Russia, China, and Iran will cooperate with the trade union in this context. So the US could potentially influence countries such as Pakistan and the Southern Caucasus countries, which have aligned with European interests. These will lead to huge shifts in the entire asia geopolitical landscape. So the Impact of B5+1 will grow beyond Central Asia.

  • Kyrgyzstan’s Kyzyl-Ompol: Government’s Reassurances Fail to Quell Uranium Worries

    Kyrgyzstan’s Kyzyl-Ompol: Government’s Reassurances Fail to Quell Uranium Worries

    Large-scale development projects face numerous challenges when implemented in developing countries, and Kyrgyzstan, a nation nestled in the mountains of Central Asia, is no exception. Seen as a crucial element in the country’s future, the ambitious Kyzyl-Ompol uranium mining project is entangled in a complicated relationship between environmentalists, skeptical citizens, and proponents of progressive growth. 

    Kyrgyzstan is one of the most economically disadvantaged in Asia, currently holding the unenviable title of the second poorest country in Central Asia, trailing behind Tajikistan. A staggering 22.4% of the population languishes below the poverty line, a stark reality exacerbated by the predominant reliance on agriculture in the challenging high mountain terrain where poor soil conditions impede progress and hinder improvements in people’s quality of life.

    However, a glimmer of economic potential emerges from the nation’s vast mineral reserves, offering a promising avenue to transform Kyrgyzstan’s financial standing. Collaborating with strategic allies like Russia, China, and India, the country is cautiously exploring the untapped possibilities within its mineral wealth. Noteworthy among these resources are substantial deposits of coal, gold, uranium, antimony, and other coveted metals.

    The significant presence of uranium, a mineral in high demand, amplifies Kyrgyzstan’s potential on the global stage. As diplomatic ties with China strengthen, there is an anticipation that the country will leverage its mineral reserves to forge a path towards economic revitalization. 

    The Kyrgyzstan government’s initiatives to harness uranium and various rare earth metals around the revered Lake Issyk-Kul, often likened to a sea for this landlocked nation and its most populous tourist destination, have sparked discontent among the people. However, a pervasive fear of reprisals has led to a muted expression of concerns among the populace.

    In a concerted effort to alter public sentiment, the government is actively working to address apprehensions. President Sadyr Japarov took a significant step in this direction last month by traveling to the city of Balykchy. Here, he engaged with community representatives from the Issyk-Kul and Naryn regions, seeking to provide assurances and clarity regarding the developments at the Kyzyl-Ompol field.

    During his address, President Japarov emphasized the potential creation of over 1,000 job opportunities in the area, attempting to assuage the concerns of residents like Kubatbek Japarov assured us that this venture would be akin to a second Kumtor gold mine, with all proceeds from the uranium excavation flowing directly into the state coffers.

    Officials aligned with President Japarov have affirmed that the state will take charge of the mine’s development, asserting that this hands-on approach ensures the utilization of safe and responsible methods. Additionally, they downplayed the prominence of uranium at the Kyzyl-Ompol site, placing emphasis on the extraction of titanomagnetite, a unique mineral with diverse applications ranging from steel production to extracting titanium. 

    Concerns about the potential development of Kyzyl-Ompol have been festering for a minimum of five years. In 2019, a year prior to President Sooronbai Jeenbekov’s displacement by Japarov, local activists orchestrated protests against the exploration efforts of the Russian company UrAsia Kyrgyzstan. In response to the public outcry, authorities took decisive action and revoked the company’s license.

    While the government has acknowledged the simmering protests in the recent year, there is a gradual shift in public sentiment. However, rights activists contend that a broader suppression of dissent is systematically quashing any form of disagreement throughout Kyrgyzstan through repressive measures. This crackdown has led to the imprisonment of numerous government critics, including some members of parliament.

    This fear of people of Kyrgyzstan and the broader Central Asian region is stained by the toxic legacy of the Soviet Union’s nuclear industry. A uranium mine and plant in the southern Kyrgyz town of Mailuu-Suu played a crucial role in producing fuel for the Soviets’ first atomic bomb for over two decades following World War II. Although uranium mining ceased in Mailuu-Suu in 1968, the area had already become highly contaminated due to a tailings dam failure in 1958 and the negligent disposal of radioactive materials.

    Mailuu-Suu, situated upstream of the densely populated Ferghana Valley, currently harbors more than 20 uranium tailings dams containing nearly 2 million cubic meters of toxic material, some of which are nestled into the banks of the local river. The town exhibits higher rates of diseases compared to other parts of Kyrgyzstan, and the looming threat of a natural disaster in this mountainous, seismically active region could have severe consequences for millions of people.

    Another site with a uranium mining legacy is Ming-Kush in the neighboring Naryn Province, where remediation efforts funded by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) have contributed to securing toxic waste storage and decontaminating the area.

    Despite progress in some areas, numerous smaller-scale toxic waste sites persist across Kyrgyzstan, demanding cleanup more than three decades since gaining independence. Even if the focus shifts to mining titanomagnetite, the presence of uranium in a fairly high concentration raises concerns. During mining and transportation, the potential spread of uranium-laden dust poses risks to both the environment and the population. Some argue that this could lead to incidents akin to the 1998 spill of around a ton of cyanide into the Barskoon River, flowing into Lake Issyk-Kul, along the route to the Kumtor gold mine.

    Officials have been championing optimistic appraisals of Kyzyl-Ompol’s potential wealth for Kyrgyzstan, as Akylbek Japarov, the head of the Cabinet (no relation to the president), declared in January that the field boasts deposits valued at $300 billion. President Pledged that local residents would “get rich” and Kyzyl-Ompol would transform into “a second Kumtor”.

    Kyrgyz officials seem to regard uranium as a prospective source of robust currency through exports, offering a multifaceted solution. Beyond the economic dimension, there is a critical energy imperative. While Kyrgyzstan’s nuclear facility would naturally be smaller compared to those planned by its larger neighbors, the conceptual framework is already evolving. The country’s nuclear requirements are driven by climatic pressures on hydroelectric power, which currently contributes around 90 percent of domestically produced electricity. 

    Although the political aspirations align with the pressing energy needs, the implementation without the inclusion of public opinion and advanced technology could potentially result in disastrous consequences. The development of the nation and the success of this massive project hinges on paying close attention to what the people have to say and implementing the appropriate technological safeguards to finish the project.