Central Asia is once again capturing global attention. Positioned between Russia, China, Europe, and the Middle East, the region has primarily been viewed through the lens of great power dynamics, including Russian influence, China's Belt and Road Initiative, and Western efforts to counter Russia. However, the five Central Asian countries—Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan—are now leveraging their strategic value to expand their relationships with Europe, Turkey, and South Korea, rather than aligning with a single great power. Kazakhstan's foreign policy of 'multivector diplomacy' is spreading across Central Asia.
This shift is driven by changes in geopolitics and economic security. The war in Ukraine has heightened awareness of the risks associated with dependence on Russia. The importance of the 'Middle Corridor,' which connects China and Europe without passing through Russia, has also increased. This trade route, which traverses the Caspian Sea and the Caucasus, serves as a means to reduce reliance on any single great power.
Central Asia's value is further enhanced by its rich supply of strategic minerals. The region is emerging as a source not only of oil and gas but also of uranium, rare metals, and tungsten. As U.S.-China competition intensifies over securing these critical minerals, the strategic importance of Central Asia grows.
Rather than remaining a battleground for great power competition, Central Asia is using this rivalry to enhance its negotiating power. The strategy of establishing relationships with multiple countries to obtain necessary resources is becoming increasingly evident.
In this context, the first Korea-Central Asia Summit held in Seoul on September 16 is significant. The attendance of leaders from all five countries marks the elevation of a cooperation forum established in 2007 to a summit-level dialogue. President Lee Jae-myung emphasized the importance of collaboration in supply chains, energy, markets, and technology, urging the nations to prepare together for the next 30 years.
South Korea has ample opportunities for cooperation. The country can diversify supply chains in the fields of strategic minerals and energy, while also leveraging its technology and experience in railway and transportation infrastructure. Areas such as AI, digital technology, talent development, climate change, and logistics networks also present opportunities for collaboration. This approach, which aims to expand regional cooperation beyond bilateral ties, aligns with the trend of Central Asian countries strengthening their mutual cooperation.
While South Korea cannot match the vast capital of China or the historical and geographical influence of Russia, Central Asia seeks partners rather than subordinate powers. South Korea's position, having achieved both democratization and industrialization, can shine in this context.
The 'Silk Road spirit' emphasized by President Lee also reflects this sentiment. The Silk Road was a space for the exchange of people, goods, technology, and culture. It is essential for South Korea to consider not only what it can gain but also what it can provide to meet the needs of Central Asia, marking the first step in this partnership.
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.